“Sir, these six things don’t lead to the decline of a mendicant. What six? Respect for the Teacher, for the teaching, for the Saṅgha, for the training, for diligence, and for hospitality. These six things don’t lead to the decline of a mendicant.” That is what that deity said, and the Teacher concurred. Then that deity, knowing that the Teacher concurred, bowed, and respectfully circled the Buddha, keeping him on his right, before vanishing right there.
“Respect for the Teacher and the teaching, and keen respect for the Saṅgha; a mendicant who respects diligence and hospitality can’t decline, and has drawn near to extinguishment.”