On his way from Benares to Uruvela in Magadha, Shakyamuni entered a quiet forest and began seated meditation. At that time, thirty young men of royal blood, all but one with their young wives, were enjoying themselves in the woods. One of the young men was unmarried, and a harlot had been procured for him. As the others were lost in their amusements, the harlot stole their gold, silver, and jewels and ran away. When they saw what had happened, the young men and women hastened in search of her. Coming upon Shakyamuni seated in a grove, they asked if he had seen the woman. He replied by asking why they were looking for her. After hearing their reason, he asked, “Which is more important, to seek that woman or to seek yourselves?” They answered that seeking themselves was more important. Whereupon Shakyamuni said, “Sit there, and I will teach you the Law whereby to seek yourselves.” They then listened to his sermon.

Following his usual custom, Shakyamuni taught first the triple doctrine of almsgiving to the poor and holy people, abiding by the moral precepts, and the assurance that good acts are rewarded by rebirth in a blessed state. From this he gradually moved to the Four Noble Truths. Upon hearing his words, the young men came to understand the true nature of human life throughout the world and attained the pure and spotless Eye of the Law. They requested to be allowed to abandon the secular world and were accepted as members of the Order.