I am looking for a text, either in the Canon or in the commentaries, where a series of questions is asked; the circle of people being able to answer the subsequent question becomes smaller and smaller. In the end we have a question only Sariputta can answer, and after that there remains a question that even he cannot answer but the Buddha can.
I have been searching for this text for a considerable time now and I cannot find it again. I read it once, but I don’t remember where. If someone can help me to find it, I would be very grateful.
Amidst this assembly the Master thought, “Moggallāna has been shown to possess supernatural power, Upāli as one who is versed in the sacred law, but the quality of high wisdom possessed by Sāriputta has not been shown. Save and except me, no other possesses wisdom so full and complete as his; I will make known the quality of his wisdom.”
First of all he asked a question which is put to ordinary persons, and the ordinary persons answered it.
Then he asked a question within the scope of those of the First Path, and this they of the First Path answered, but the ordinary folk knew nought of it.
In the same way he asked questions in turn within the scope of those of the Second and Third Paths, of the Saints, of the Chief Disciples; and in each case those who were below each grade in turn were unable to answer, but they who were above could answer.
Then he put a question within the power of Sāriputta, and this the Elder could answer, but the others not so. The people asked, “Who is this Elder who answered the Master?”
You’re much welcome.