He was the son of a ruler of a province and was trained in all accomplishments. Having heard a great Thera teach, he left the world and joined the Order. He practised jhāna and became an Arahant.

One day an ascetic named Paṇḍarassa-gotta heard him teach and questioned him on the future progress of bhikkhus.

Phussa’s reply is contained in the Theragāthā, vs. 949-80; ThagA.ii.82 f.