16(6)Mission
"Bhikkhus,possessing eight qualities,a bhikkhu is worthy of going on a mission.
What eight?
"Here,(1)-(2)a bhikkhu is one who listens and makes others
listen;(3)-(4)he is one who learns well and makes others learn;
(5)-(6)he is one who understands and communicates well;(7)he is skilled in[knowing]what is relevant and what irrelevant;
and (8)he does not foment quarrels.Possessing these eight qualities,a bhikkhu is worthy of going on a mission.
"Bhikkhus,possessing eight qualities,Sāriputta is worthy of going on a mission:
What eight?
"Here,Sariputta is one who listens and who makes others listen...he does not foment quarrels.
Possessing these eight qualities,Sariputta is worthy of going on a mission."
One who does not tremble when he arrives at an assembly with fierce debaters;
who does not omit words or conceal his message;
who speaks without hesitation,and does not waver when asked a question;
a bhikkhu like this is worthy of going on a mission.