A wanderer (skilled in the Vedaṅga, says Buddhaghosa, SA.ii.93) of Rājagaha. When the Buddha’s fame spread and his gains increased, Susīma’s followers suggested that he should learn the Buddha’s doctrine and teach it to the laity so that he and his followers, too, could reap some of the advantages.

Susīma agreed, and sought, Ānanda, who, with the Buddha’s sanction, ordained him. In discussion with the monks who declared that they had obtained complete emancipation, etc., Susīma discovered that all of them did not possess supernatural powers, but thought they had gained nibbāna “through insight.” He thereupon sought the Buddha to have the matter explained. The Buddha asked him many questions, and made him realise the truth of their statement. Susīma confessed his original purpose in joining the Order and asked for forgiveness (S.ii.119 ff). He developed insight and became an Arahant. SA.ii.96.