Thus have I heard:
One time, the Budha was staying at Anaathapindidas Ashrama in Jetavana of Shraavastii.
At that time, Budha said to the bhikshus, “There are two practices that bring great merit, great rewards, attain the flavour of liberation, and lead to the unconditioned state for ordinary people. What are these two practices?
The first is serving and supporting one’s parents. Serving one’s parents brings great merit and great rewards. The second is serving and supporting a Bodhisattva who is one lifetime away from Budhahood. Serving such a Bodhisattva also brings great merit and great rewards.
Therefore, bhikshus, offering support to these two types of people brings great merit, great rewards, attain the flavour of liberation, and leads to the unconditioned state.
Thus, bhikshus, you should always remember to be filial and serve your parents. In this way, bhikshus, you should train yourselves.”
When the bhikshus heard what the Budha said, they followed it with joy.