King Suddhodana Requested the Buddha to Expound the Characteristics of the Five Precepts

Thus have I heard. At one time the Buddha was in Kapilavastu. Then King Śuddhodana came to where the Buddha was. He prostrated himself with his head at the Buddha's feet, then with palms reverently joined, addressed the Buddha, saying: "I wish to make a request to attain liberation for myself. I only hope the World-Honored One will compassionately grant my wish." The Buddha said: "Your wish may be fulfilled. I shall grant whatever the King requests."

Explanation: I (Ānanda) personally heard the Buddha say this. At a certain time, the Buddha was in Kapilavastu. King Śuddhodana came to the Buddha's dwelling, prostrated himself with his head touching the ground at the Buddha's feet, and with palms reverently joined, said to the Buddha: "I wish to request the Dharma to seek liberation for myself. I only hope the World-Honored One will compassionately grant my wish." The Buddha said: "I can fulfill your wish, according to the Great King's request."