And who is the fourth ascetic? It’s a mendicant who realizes the undefiled freedom of heart and freedom by wisdom. And they live having realized it with their own insight in this very life due to the ending of defilements. This is the fourth ascetic.

‘Only here is there a first ascetic, here a second ascetic, here a third ascetic, and here a fourth ascetic. Other sects are empty of ascetics.’ This, mendicants, is how you should rightly roar your lion’s roar.”

Numbered Discourses 4.242 24. Deeds Benefits of Relying on a True Person

“Mendicants, you can expect four benefits from relying on a true person. What four? Growth in noble ethics, immersion, wisdom, and freedom. You can expect these four benefits from relying on a true person.”

Numbered Discourses 4.243 25. Perils of Offenses Schism in the Saṅgha