When the Buddha had stayed at Vesālī for as long as he liked, he set out wandering toward the country of Bhaggā. When he eventually arrived, he stayed at Susumāragira in the Bhesakaḷā Grove, the deer park. At this time Prince Bodhi had recently built the Kokanada stilt house. It had not yet been inhabited by any monastic or brahmin, or anyone else. The prince said to the young brahmin Sañcikāputta, “My dear Sañcikāputta, please go to the Buddha, bow down in my name with your head at his feet, and ask if he’s healthy, strong, and living at ease. And then say, ‘Sir, please accept tomorrow’s meal from Prince Bodhi together with the Sangha of monks.’” Saying, “Yes, sir,” Sañcikāputta went to the Buddha and exchanged pleasantries with him. He then sat down and told the Buddha all he had been asked to say, concluding with the invitation for the meal on the following day. The Buddha consented by remaining silent.

Knowing that the Buddha had consented, Sañcikāputta got up from his seat, returned to the prince, and told him what had happened.