大般若波羅蜜多經

02

At that time, at the farthest reaches of innumerable worlds to the north, there was a world named Supreme Victory, where a Buddha named Lord of Victory—the Tathagata, Worthy One, Perfectly and Fully Awakened One, Perfect in Knowledge and Conduct, Well-Gone One, Knower of the World, Unsurpassed One, Tamer of Persons, Teacher of Devas and Humans, Buddha, Blessed One—was dwelling securely and expounding the Dharma of the Great Prajnaparamita to an assembly of great bodhisattvas.

Among them was a bodhisattva named Victorious Life. Seeing this great radiance, the trembling of the earth, and the Buddha’s bodily signs, he became perplexed, approached the Buddha, bowed his head at the Buddha’s feet, and said: “World-Honored One! Through what causes and conditions have these auspicious signs appeared?”

The Buddha Lord of Victory then said to the great bodhisattva Victorious Life: “Good man! To the south of this realm, beyond innumerable worlds, at the farthest reaches there is a world named Endurance. There dwells a Buddha named Shakyamuni—the Tathagata, Worthy One, Perfectly and Fully Awakened One, Perfect in Knowledge and Conduct, Well-Gone One, Knower of the World, Unsurpassed One, Tamer of Persons, Teacher of Devas and Humans, Buddha, Blessed One—who is now dwelling there securely and is about to expound the Dharma of the Great Prajnaparamita to an assembly of great bodhisattvas. These auspicious signs have appeared through that Buddha’s spiritual power.”

Having heard this, Victorious Life rejoiced and leapt for joy. He again addressed the Buddha: “World-Honored One! I now request permission to go to the world of Endurance to behold, venerate, and make offerings to the Tathagata Shakyamuni and the assembly of great bodhisattvas who have attained penetrating understanding, dharani gateways, samadhi gateways, and sovereign mastery of spiritual powers, who are in their final existence and will succeed to the Buddha’s position. I beseech you, in your compassionate mercy, to grant me permission!”

The Buddha Lord of Victory then said to the bodhisattva Victorious Life: “Excellent! Excellent! Now is indeed the proper time. You may depart.”

The Buddha immediately took a thousand lotus blossoms of pure golden color, each with a thousand petals and adorned with precious jewels, gave them to the bodhisattva Victorious Life, and instructed him: “Take these flowers to the Buddha Shakyamuni and convey my words to him: ‘The Tathagata Lord of Victory respectfully inquires after you. Are you free from illness and affliction? Are your movements light and easy, your strength well balanced, and do you abide in peace and happiness?

Are worldly conditions bearable? Are sentient beings easy to guide?’ Then present these lotus blossoms to the World-Honored One so that they may perform the work of a Buddha. When you reach that Buddha-land, you must perceive it correctly.

Upon seeing that Buddha-land and its great assemblies, do not give rise to contempt and thereby harm yourself. Why is this? The majestic virtue of those bodhisattvas is difficult to equal.

Impelled by their vows to liberate beings and for the sake of great causes and conditions, they have taken birth in that realm.”

The bodhisattva Victorious Life received the flowers and respectfully accepted the command. Together with immeasurable hundreds of thousands of innumerable great bodhisattvas, both monastic and lay, and innumerable hundreds of thousands of boys and girls, he bowed his head at the Buddha’s feet, circumambulated him to the right, and took his leave. Each carried immeasurable varieties of flowers and incense, banners, precious canopies, garments, precious ornaments, and other articles of offering, and they set out on their journey. As they passed through innumerable Buddha-lands to the north, in every Buddha-land they respectfully made offerings, honored, and praised, without omitting a single realm.

Upon reaching the Buddha Shakyamuni, they bowed their heads at the Buddha’s feet, circumambulated him hundreds of thousands of times, and then withdrew to stand at one side. The bodhisattva Victorious Life stepped forward and addressed the Buddha: “World-Honored One! To the north of this realm, beyond innumerable worlds, at the farthest reaches there is a world named Supreme Victory.

There dwells a Buddha named the Tathagata Lord of Victory—the Worthy One, Perfectly and Fully Awakened One, Perfect in Knowledge and Conduct, Well-Gone One, Knower of the World, Unsurpassed One, Tamer of Persons, Teacher of Devas and Humans, Buddha, Blessed One—who respectfully inquires after the World-Honored One: Are you free from illness and affliction? Are your movements light and easy, your strength well balanced, and do you abide in peace and happiness?

Are worldly conditions bearable? Are sentient beings easy to guide?” He then presented those thousand lotus blossoms of pure golden color to the World-Honored One so that they might perform the work of a Buddha.

At that time, the Buddha Shakyamuni accepted those lotus blossoms and scattered them back toward the innumerable Buddha-worlds to the north. Through the Buddha’s spiritual power, those lotus blossoms fell throughout all those Buddha-lands. Upon the receptacle of every flower sat a transformation Buddha in the lotus posture, expounding to the bodhisattvas the Dharma corresponding to the Great Prajnaparamita. All sentient beings who heard it would assuredly attain the fruit of unsurpassed awakening.

When Victorious Life and his retinue witnessed this, they rejoiced and leapt for joy, praising it as unprecedented. Each, according to the measure of their roots of virtue and the abundance or scarcity of their articles of offering, respectfully made offerings to, honored, and praised the Buddha and the bodhisattvas. Having done so, they withdrew and sat to one side.

In the same manner, from that world at the farthest reaches all the way to this realm, in every Buddha-land to the north there were Tathagatas then expounding the wondrous Dharma to their assemblies. In the presence of each of those Buddhas was also a foremost bodhisattva who, upon seeing that great radiance, the trembling of the earth, and the Buddha’s bodily signs, approached the Buddha and said: “World-Honored One! Through what causes and conditions have these auspicious signs appeared?”

Each of those Buddhas replied: “To the south of this realm there is a world named Endurance, where a Buddha named Shakyamuni is about to expound the Dharma of the Great Prajnaparamita to the bodhisattvas. These auspicious signs have appeared through that Buddha’s spiritual power.”

Having heard this, each of the foremost bodhisattvas rejoiced and requested permission to go to the world of Endurance to behold, venerate, and make offerings to the Buddha and the bodhisattvas. Those Tathagatas praised them and permitted them to depart. Each Tathagata gave them a thousand-jeweled lotus blossom of pure golden color and instructed them: “Take these flowers to that Buddha and convey all my words to him: ‘I respectfully inquire after you.

Are you free from illness and affliction? Are your movements light and easy, your strength well balanced, and do you abide in peace and happiness? Are worldly conditions bearable?

Are sentient beings easy to guide?’ Then present these lotus blossoms to the World-Honored One so that they may perform the work of a Buddha. When you reach that realm, you must perceive it correctly. Upon seeing that Buddha-land and its bodhisattvas, do not give rise to contempt and thereby harm yourself.

Why is this? The majestic virtue of those bodhisattvas is difficult to equal. Impelled by their vows to liberate beings and for the sake of great causes and conditions, they have taken birth in that realm.”

Each foremost bodhisattva received the flowers and respectfully accepted the command. Together with immeasurable, innumerable bodhisattvas, boys, and girls, they took leave of their Buddha, carried articles of offering, and set out on their journey. In every Buddha-land through which they passed, they made offerings to the Buddhas and bodhisattvas without omitting a single realm.

Upon reaching the Buddha Shakyamuni, they bowed their heads at the Buddha’s feet, circumambulated him hundreds of thousands of times, presented the flowers, and fully conveyed the message. After accepting the flowers, the Buddha scattered them back toward the north. Through the Buddha’s spiritual power, the flowers fell throughout all the Buddha-lands. Upon the receptacle of every flower was a transformation Buddha expounding the Dharma of the Great Prajnaparamita to the bodhisattvas, causing all who heard it assuredly to attain the fruit of unsurpassed awakening.

When each foremost bodhisattva and the accompanying retinue witnessed this, they rejoiced and praised it as unprecedented. Each, according to the measure of their roots of virtue and the abundance or scarcity of their articles of offering, respectfully made offerings to, honored, and praised the Buddha and the bodhisattvas. Having done so, they withdrew and sat to one side.

At that time, at the farthest limit of countless worlds to the northeast, there was a world called Samadhi Adornment, where a Buddha named Samadhi Image Victorious Virtue—the Tathagata, Worthy One, Perfectly and Completely Awakened One, Perfect in Knowledge and Conduct, Well-Gone One, Knower of the World, Unsurpassed One, Tamer of Men, Teacher of Devas and Humans, Buddha, Blessed One—was dwelling peacefully and expounding the Dharma of the Great Prajnaparamita to an assembly of great bodhisattvas.

Among them was a bodhisattva named Courageous Freedom from Defilement. When he saw this radiance, the trembling of the earth, and the bodily signs of the Buddha, doubt arose in his mind. He approached the Buddha, bowed his head at the Buddha’s feet, and said: “World-Honored One, through what causes and conditions has this auspicious sign appeared?”

The Buddha Samadhi Image Victorious Virtue then told the great bodhisattva Courageous Freedom from Defilement: “Good man, southwest of this world, beyond countless worlds, there is a world at the farthest limit called Endurance. There dwells a Buddha named Shakyamuni—the Tathagata, Worthy One, Perfectly and Completely Awakened One, Perfect in Knowledge and Conduct, Well-Gone One, Knower of the World, Unsurpassed One, Tamer of Men, Teacher of Devas and Humans, Buddha, Blessed One. He is now dwelling peacefully there and is about to expound the Dharma of the Great Prajnaparamita to an assembly of great bodhisattvas. Through that Buddha’s spiritual power, this auspicious sign has appeared.”

When Courageous Freedom from Defilement heard the Buddha say this, he rejoiced and leapt with joy. He again addressed the Buddha: “World-Honored One, I now ask to go to the world of Endurance to behold, venerate, and make offerings to the Tathagata Shakyamuni and the assembly of great bodhisattvas who have attained penetrating understanding, dharani gateways, samadhi gateways, and sovereign mastery of spiritual powers; who are in their final bodies and will succeed to the position of Buddhahood. I beseech you, out of compassionate mercy, to grant me permission!”

The Buddha Samadhi Image Victorious Virtue then told the bodhisattva Courageous Freedom from Defilement: “Excellent! Excellent! Now is indeed the proper time. You may depart.”

The Buddha then took a thousand golden lotuses, each with a thousand petals and adorned with precious jewels, and gave them to the bodhisattva Courageous Freedom from Defilement, instructing him: “Take these flowers to the Buddha Shakyamuni and convey my message, saying: ‘The Tathagata Samadhi Image Victorious Virtue respectfully inquires after you. Are you free from illness and affliction? Are your movements light and easeful, your strength well regulated, and are you dwelling in peace and happiness?

Are worldly affairs bearable? Are sentient beings easy to guide?’ Then present these lotuses to the World-Honored One for the performance of Buddha-work. When you reach that realm, maintain right understanding.

Upon seeing that Buddha-land and its great assemblies, do not give rise to contempt and thereby bring harm upon yourself. Why is this? The majestic virtue of those great bodhisattvas is difficult to equal.

Urged on by their vows to liberate beings, and because of great causes and conditions, they were born in that realm.”

The bodhisattva Courageous Freedom from Defilement received the flowers and respectfully accepted the command. Together with immeasurable hundreds of thousands of countless great bodhisattvas, both monastic and lay, and immeasurable hundreds of thousands of boys and girls, he bowed his head at the Buddha’s feet, circumambulated him to the right, and took his leave. Each carried immeasurable varieties of flowers and incense, banners, pennants, precious canopies, garments, precious ornaments, and other articles of offering, and then set out. As they passed through countless Buddha-lands to the northeast, in every Buddha-land they reverently made offerings, honored, and praised the Buddhas, omitting none.

When they arrived before the Buddha Shakyamuni, they bowed their heads at the Buddha’s feet, circumambulated him hundreds of thousands of times, and then withdrew to stand to one side. The bodhisattva Courageous Freedom from Defilement stepped forward and addressed the Buddha: “World-Honored One, northeast of this realm, beyond countless worlds, there is a world at the farthest limit called Samadhi Adornment. There dwells a Buddha named Samadhi Image Victorious Virtue—the Tathagata, Worthy One, Perfectly and Completely Awakened One, Perfect in Knowledge and Conduct, Well-Gone One, Knower of the World, Unsurpassed One, Tamer of Men, Teacher of Devas and Humans, Buddha, Blessed One—who respectfully inquires after the World-Honored One: ‘Are you free from illness and affliction?

Are your movements light and easeful, your strength well regulated, and are you dwelling in peace and happiness? Are worldly affairs bearable? Are sentient beings easy to guide?’” He then presented the thousand golden lotuses to the World-Honored One for the performance of Buddha-work.

At that time, the Buddha Shakyamuni received those lotuses and scattered them back toward the countless Buddha-worlds to the northeast. Through the Buddha’s spiritual power, these flowers fell throughout all those Buddha-lands. Within the calyx of each flower sat a manifested Buddha in the full lotus posture, expounding to the bodhisattvas Dharma corresponding to the Great Prajnaparamita. All sentient beings who heard it attained the fruit of unsurpassed awakening.

When Courageous Freedom from Defilement and his retinue saw this, they rejoiced and leapt with joy, praising it as unprecedented. Each, according to the extent of their roots of virtue and whether their articles of offering were many or few, reverently made offerings to, honored, and praised the Buddha and the bodhisattvas. Having done so, they withdrew and sat to one side.

In this same manner, from that world at the farthest limit all the way to this realm, in every Buddha-land to the northeast there were Tathagatas who were then expounding the wondrous Dharma to their assemblies. Before each of those Buddhas was also a foremost bodhisattva. Upon seeing that great radiance, the trembling of the earth, and the bodily signs of the Buddha, each approached his Buddha and asked: “World-Honored One, through what causes and conditions has this auspicious sign appeared?”

Each of those Tathagatas replied: “Southwest of this realm lies the world of Endurance, where there is a Buddha named Shakyamuni who is about to expound the Dharma of the Great Prajnaparamita to the bodhisattvas. Through that Buddha’s spiritual power, this auspicious sign has appeared.”

When the foremost bodhisattvas heard this, they rejoiced, and each asked to go to the world of Endurance to behold, venerate, and make offerings to the Buddha and the bodhisattvas. Those Tathagatas praised them and permitted them to go. Each Tathagata gave the bodhisattva a thousand-jeweled golden lotus and instructed him: “Take these flowers to that Buddha and fully convey my message: ‘I respectfully inquire after you.

Are you free from illness and affliction? Are your movements light and easeful, your strength well regulated, and are you dwelling in peace and happiness? Are worldly affairs bearable?

Are sentient beings easy to guide?’ Then present these lotuses to the World-Honored One for the performance of Buddha-work. When you reach that realm, maintain right understanding. Upon seeing that Buddha-land and its bodhisattvas, do not give rise to contempt and thereby bring harm upon yourself.

Why is this? The majestic virtue of those bodhisattvas is difficult to equal. Urged on by their vows to liberate beings, and because of great causes and conditions, they were born in that realm.”

Each foremost bodhisattva received the flowers and respectfully accepted the command. Together with immeasurable, countless bodhisattvas, boys, and girls, they took leave of their Buddhas, carried articles of offering, and set out. In every Buddha-land through which they passed, they made offerings to the Buddhas and bodhisattvas, omitting none.

When they arrived before the Buddha Shakyamuni, they bowed their heads at the Buddha’s feet, circumambulated him hundreds of thousands of times, presented the flowers, and fully reported everything. After the Buddha received the flowers, he scattered them back toward the northeast. Through the Buddha’s spiritual power, the flowers fell throughout all the Buddha-lands. Within the calyx of each flower was a manifested Buddha expounding the Dharma of the Great Prajnaparamita to the bodhisattvas, causing those who heard it to attain with certainty the fruit of unsurpassed awakening.

When the foremost bodhisattvas and their retinues saw this, they rejoiced and praised it as unprecedented. Each, according to the extent of their roots of virtue and whether their articles of offering were many or few, reverently made offerings to, honored, and praised the Buddha and the bodhisattvas. Having done so, they withdrew and sat to one side.

At that time, at the farthest reach of innumerable worlds to the southeast, there was a world named Adorned with Wondrous Awakening, exceedingly delightful, where a Buddha named Lotus Supreme Virtue Tathagata, Worthy One, Perfectly and Completely Awakened One, Perfect in Knowledge and Conduct, Well-Gone One, Knower of the World, Unsurpassed Person, Tamer of Beings, Teacher of Gods and Humans, Buddha, Blessed One, was dwelling peacefully and expounding the Dharma of the Great Prajnaparamita to the great bodhisattvas.

There was among them a bodhisattva named Lotus Hand. Seeing this great radiance, the earth trembling, and the bodily marks of the Buddha, he became perplexed, went before the Buddha, bowed his head at the Buddha’s feet, and addressed him: “World-Honored One! Through what causes and conditions has this auspicious sign appeared?”

Thereupon, the Buddha Lotus Supreme Virtue said to the great bodhisattva Lotus Hand: “Good man! To the northwest of this realm, beyond innumerable worlds, there is a world at the farthest reach named Endurance, where a Buddha named Shakyamuni, Tathagata, Worthy One, Perfectly and Completely Awakened One, Perfect in Knowledge and Conduct, Well-Gone One, Knower of the World, Unsurpassed Person, Tamer of Beings, Teacher of Gods and Humans, Buddha, Blessed One, is dwelling peacefully and is about to expound the Dharma of the Great Prajnaparamita to the assembly of great bodhisattvas. Through that Buddha’s spiritual power, this auspicious sign has appeared.”

When Lotus Hand heard the Buddha’s words, he rejoiced and leapt with delight. He again addressed the Buddha: “World-Honored One! I now ask leave to go to the world of Endurance to behold, pay homage to, and make offerings to the Tathagata Shakyamuni and the assemblies of great bodhisattvas, who have attained unhindered understanding, the dharani gateways, the samadhi gateways, and sovereign spiritual powers, who are in their final bodies and will succeed to the station of Buddhahood. I beseech you, in your loving compassion, to grant me permission!”

Thereupon, the Buddha Lotus Supreme Virtue said to the bodhisattva Lotus Hand: “Excellent! Excellent! Now is the proper time. You may depart.”

The Buddha then took a thousand lotus blossoms of pure gold, each with a thousand petals and adorned with precious jewels, gave them to the bodhisattva Lotus Hand, and instructed him: “Take these flowers to the Buddha Shakyamuni and, in accordance with my words, say: ‘The Tathagata Lotus Supreme Virtue respectfully inquires after you. Do you have little illness and little affliction? Are your movements light and easy, your strength harmonious, and are you peaceful and joyful?

Are worldly affairs bearable? Are sentient beings easy to guide?’ Then present these lotus blossoms to the World-Honored One so that they may perform the work of a Buddha. When you reach that realm, you must perceive it correctly.

On seeing that Buddha-land and its great assemblies, do not give rise to contempt and thereby harm yourself. Why is this? Because the awe-inspiring virtue of those bodhisattvas is difficult to equal.

Impelled by their vows to liberate beings and for the sake of great causes and conditions, they were born in that realm.”

The bodhisattva Lotus Hand received the flowers and respectfully accepted the command. Then, together with immeasurable hundreds of thousands of countless great bodhisattvas, both monastic and lay, and countless hundreds of thousands of young men and young women, he bowed his head at the Buddha’s feet, circumambulated him to the right, and took his leave. Each carried immeasurable varieties of flowers and incense, banners, precious canopies, garments, precious ornaments, and other articles of offering, and they set forth. As they passed through innumerable Buddha-lands to the southeast, in every Buddha-land they respectfully made offerings, honored, and praised, without omitting a single realm.

When they reached the Buddha Shakyamuni, they bowed their heads at the Buddha’s feet, circumambulated him hundreds of thousands of times, offered the flowers, and reported everything to him. After accepting the flowers, the Buddha scattered them back toward the southeast. Through the Buddha’s spiritual power, the flowers fell throughout all the Buddha-lands. Within the receptacle of every flower was an emanated Buddha expounding the Dharma of the Great Prajnaparamita to the bodhisattvas, causing those who heard it assuredly to attain the fruit of unsurpassed awakening.

When the foremost bodhisattva and his retinue saw this, they rejoiced and praised it as unprecedented. Each, in accordance with the extent of his roots of virtue and the abundance or scarcity of his articles of offering, respectfully made offerings to, honored, and praised the Buddha and the bodhisattvas. Having done so, they withdrew and sat to one side.

At that time, at the farthest reach of innumerable worlds to the southwest, there was a world named Freed from the Accumulation of Dust, where a Buddha named Sun Disc Universal Illumination Supreme Virtue Tathagata, Worthy One, Perfectly and Completely Awakened One, Perfect in Knowledge and Conduct, Well-Gone One, Knower of the World, Unsurpassed Person, Tamer of Beings, Teacher of Gods and Humans, Buddha, Blessed One, was dwelling peacefully and expounding the Dharma of the Great Prajnaparamita to the great bodhisattvas.

In that realm was a bodhisattva named Sunlight Radiance. Seeing this great radiance, the earth trembling, and the bodily marks of the Buddha, he became perplexed, went before the Buddha, bowed his head at the Buddha’s feet, and addressed him: “World-Honored One! Through what causes and conditions has this auspicious sign appeared?”

Thereupon, the Buddha Sun Disc Universal Illumination Supreme Virtue said to the great bodhisattva Sunlight Radiance: “Good man! To the northeast of this realm, beyond innumerable worlds, there is a world at the farthest reach named Endurance, where a Buddha named Shakyamuni, Tathagata, Worthy One, Perfectly and Completely Awakened One, Perfect in Knowledge and Conduct, Well-Gone One, Knower of the World, Unsurpassed Person, Tamer of Beings, Teacher of Gods and Humans, Buddha, Blessed One, is now dwelling peacefully and is about to expound the Dharma of the Great Prajnaparamita to the assembly of great bodhisattvas. Through that Buddha’s spiritual power, this auspicious sign has appeared.”

When Sunlight Radiance heard the Buddha’s words, he rejoiced and leapt with delight. He again addressed the Buddha: “World-Honored One! I now ask leave to go to the world of Endurance to behold, pay homage to, and make offerings to the Tathagata Shakyamuni and the assemblies of great bodhisattvas, who have attained unhindered understanding, the dharani gateways, the samadhi gateways, and sovereign spiritual powers, who are in their final bodies and will succeed to the station of Buddhahood. I beseech you, in your loving compassion, to grant me permission!”

Thereupon, the Buddha Sun Disc Universal Illumination Supreme Virtue said to the bodhisattva Sunlight Radiance: “Excellent! Excellent! Now is the proper time. You may depart.”

The Buddha then took a thousand lotus blossoms of pure gold, each with a thousand petals and adorned with precious jewels, gave them to the bodhisattva Sunlight Radiance, and instructed him: “Take these flowers to the Buddha Shakyamuni and, in accordance with my words, say: ‘The Tathagata Sun Disc Universal Illumination Supreme Virtue respectfully inquires after you. Do you have little illness and little affliction? Are your movements light and easy, your strength harmonious, and are you peaceful and joyful?

Are worldly affairs bearable? Are sentient beings easy to guide?’ Then present these lotus blossoms to the World-Honored One so that they may perform the work of a Buddha. When you reach that realm, you must perceive it correctly.

On seeing that Buddha-land and its great assemblies, do not give rise to contempt and thereby harm yourself. Why is this? Because the awe-inspiring virtue of those bodhisattvas is difficult to equal.

Impelled by their vows to liberate beings and for the sake of great causes and conditions, they were born in that realm.”

The bodhisattva Sunlight Radiance received the flowers and respectfully accepted the command. Then, together with immeasurable hundreds of thousands of countless great bodhisattvas, both monastic and lay, and countless hundreds of thousands of young men and young women, he bowed his head at the Buddha’s feet, circumambulated him to the right, and took his leave. Each carried immeasurable varieties of flowers and incense, banners, precious canopies, garments, precious ornaments, and other articles of offering, and they set forth. As they passed through innumerable Buddha-lands to the southwest, in every Buddha-land they respectfully made offerings, honored, and praised, without omitting a single realm.

When they arrived before Śākyamuni Buddha, they bowed their heads at the Buddha’s feet, circumambulated him hundreds of thousands of times, and then withdrew to stand to one side. Bodhisattva Radiant Sunlight stepped forward and addressed the Buddha: “World-Honored One! To the southwest of this realm, beyond innumerable worlds, there is a world at the farthest limit called Free from the Aggregation of Dust.

There dwells a Buddha named Sun Disc Universally Illuminating Supreme Virtue Tathagata, Worthy One, Perfectly Enlightened One, Perfect in Knowledge and Conduct, Well-Gone One, Knower of the World, Unsurpassed Man, Tamer of Those to Be Tamed, Teacher of Devas and Humans, Buddha, Bhagavat. He earnestly inquires after the World-Honored One: ‘Are you free from illness and affliction? Are your movements light and easeful, your strength well-regulated, and are you dwelling in peace and happiness?

Are worldly affairs bearable? Are sentient beings easy to liberate?’” He then took those thousand pure-gold-colored lotus blossoms and presented them to the World-Honored One for the performance of Buddha-work.

At that time, Śākyamuni Buddha accepted the lotus blossoms and scattered them back toward the innumerable Buddha-worlds in the southwest. Through the Buddha’s spiritual power, those flowers fell throughout all those Buddha-realms. Within the calyx of each flower sat an emanated Buddha in the cross-legged posture, teaching the Dharma corresponding to the Great Prajnaparamita to the bodhisattvas. Any sentient being who heard it would certainly attain the fruit of unsurpassed enlightenment.

At that time, Radiant Sunlight and his retinue, having witnessed this, rejoiced and leapt with delight, praising it as unprecedented. Each, according to the measure of their roots of goodness and the abundance or scarcity of their offerings, reverently made offerings to, honored, and praised the Buddha and the bodhisattvas. Afterward, they withdrew and sat to one side.

In this same manner, from that world at the farthest limit all the way to this realm, in every Buddha-realm to the southwest there were Tathagatas, each presently teaching the wondrous Dharma to a great assembly. In the presence of each of those Buddhas, there was also a foremost bodhisattva who, upon seeing that great radiance, the earth trembling, and the Buddha’s bodily marks, approached the Buddha and asked: “World-Honored One! Through what causes and conditions has this auspicious sign appeared?”

At that time, each of those Buddhas replied: “To the northeast of this realm lies the world Endurance, where there dwells a Buddha named Śākyamuni, who is about to teach the Dharma of the Great Prajnaparamita to the bodhisattvas. This auspicious sign has appeared through that Buddha’s spiritual power.”

Upon hearing this, all the foremost bodhisattvas rejoiced, and each requested permission to travel to the world Endurance to behold, pay homage to, and make offerings to the Buddha and the bodhisattvas. Those Tathagatas praised their request and permitted them to go. Each gave them a thousand-jeweled lotus blossom of pure-gold color and instructed them: “Take this flower to that Buddha and fully convey my words: ‘I earnestly inquire after you.

Are you free from illness and affliction? Are your movements light and easeful, your strength well-regulated, and are you dwelling in peace and happiness? Are worldly affairs bearable?

Are sentient beings easy to liberate?’ Then present this lotus blossom to the World-Honored One for the performance of Buddha-work. When you reach that realm, you must perceive it correctly. Upon seeing that Buddha-realm and its bodhisattvas, do not give rise to contempt and thereby bring harm upon yourselves.

Why is this? The awe-inspiring virtue of those bodhisattvas is difficult to equal. Urged on by their vows to liberate sentient beings, they have been born in that realm because of great causes and conditions.”

Each foremost bodhisattva accepted the flower and respectfully obeyed the command. Then, together with immeasurable, innumerable bodhisattvas, boys, and girls, they took leave of their Buddhas, brought offerings with them, and set forth. In every Buddha-realm through which they passed, they made offerings to the Buddhas and bodhisattvas, omitting none.

When they arrived before Śākyamuni Buddha, they bowed their heads at the Buddha’s feet, circumambulated him hundreds of thousands of times, presented the flowers, and reported everything in full. After the Buddha accepted the flowers, he scattered them back toward the southwest. Through the Buddha’s spiritual power, the flowers fell throughout all those Buddha-realms. Within the calyx of each flower was an emanated Buddha teaching the Dharma of the Great Prajnaparamita to the bodhisattvas, causing those who heard it to certainly attain the fruit of unsurpassed enlightenment.

The foremost bodhisattvas and their retinues, having witnessed this, rejoiced and praised it as unprecedented. Each, according to the measure of their roots of goodness and the abundance or scarcity of their offerings, reverently made offerings to, honored, and praised the Buddha and the bodhisattvas. Afterward, they withdrew and sat to one side.

At that time, beyond innumerable worlds to the northwest, there was a world at the farthest limit called True Sovereignty. There dwelt a Buddha named Supreme One-Jeweled Canopy Tathagata, Worthy One, Perfectly Enlightened One, Perfect in Knowledge and Conduct, Well-Gone One, Knower of the World, Unsurpassed Man, Tamer of Those to Be Tamed, Teacher of Devas and Humans, Buddha, Bhagavat. He was abiding there securely, teaching the Dharma of the Great Prajnaparamita to assemblies of great bodhisattvas.

Among them was a bodhisattva named Supreme Jewel. Upon seeing this great radiance, the earth trembling, and the Buddha’s bodily marks, he became perplexed, approached the Buddha, bowed his head at the Buddha’s feet, and asked: “World-Honored One! Through what causes and conditions has this auspicious sign appeared?”

At that time, Supreme One-Jeweled Canopy Buddha said to the great bodhisattva Supreme Jewel: “Good man! To the southeast of this realm, beyond innumerable worlds, there is a world at the farthest limit called Endurance. There dwells a Buddha named Śākyamuni Tathagata, Worthy One, Perfectly Enlightened One, Perfect in Knowledge and Conduct, Well-Gone One, Knower of the World, Unsurpassed Man, Tamer of Those to Be Tamed, Teacher of Devas and Humans, Buddha, Bhagavat. He is now abiding there securely and is about to teach the Dharma of the Great Prajnaparamita to the assembly of great bodhisattvas. This auspicious sign has appeared through that Buddha’s spiritual power.”

Upon hearing this, Supreme Jewel rejoiced and leapt with delight. He again addressed the Buddha: “World-Honored One! I now request permission to travel to the world Endurance to behold, pay homage to, and make offerings to Śākyamuni Tathagata and the assemblies of great bodhisattvas who have attained unhindered understanding, dharani Dharma-doors, samadhi Dharma-doors, and sovereign mastery of spiritual powers; who are in their final existence; and who will succeed to the position of Buddhahood. I humbly pray that you will compassionately grant me permission!”

At that time, Supreme One-Jeweled Canopy Buddha said to Bodhisattva Supreme Jewel: “Excellent! Excellent! Now is indeed the proper time. You may depart.”

The Buddha then took a thousand pure-gold-colored lotus blossoms, each having a thousand petals and adorned with precious jewels, and gave them to Bodhisattva Supreme Jewel, instructing him: “Take these flowers to Śākyamuni Buddha and convey my words: ‘Supreme One-Jeweled Canopy Tathagata earnestly inquires after you. Are you free from illness and affliction? Are your movements light and easeful, your strength well-regulated, and are you dwelling in peace and happiness?

Are worldly affairs bearable? Are sentient beings easy to liberate?’ Then present these lotus blossoms to the World-Honored One for the performance of Buddha-work. When you reach that realm, you must perceive it correctly.

Upon seeing that Buddha-realm and its great assemblies, do not give rise to contempt and thereby bring harm upon yourself. Why is this? The awe-inspiring virtue of those bodhisattvas is difficult to equal.

Urged on by their vows to liberate sentient beings, they have been born in that realm because of great causes and conditions.”

At that time, Bodhisattva Supreme Jewel accepted the flowers and respectfully obeyed the command. Then, together with immeasurable hundreds of thousands of innumerable great bodhisattvas, both monastic and lay, and innumerable hundreds of thousands of boys and girls, he bowed his head at the Buddha’s feet, circumambulated him to the right, and took his leave. Each carried immeasurable varieties of flowers, incense, banners, precious canopies, garments, valuable ornaments, and other offerings, and they set forth. Passing through innumerable Buddha-realms to the northwest, in every Buddha-realm they reverently made offerings, honored, and praised, omitting none.

When he arrived before Śākyamuni Buddha, he bowed his head at the Buddha’s feet, circumambulated him hundreds of thousands of times, and then withdrew to stand to one side. Bodhisattva Ratnavijaya stepped forward and addressed the Buddha: “World-Honored One! To the northwest of this realm, beyond innumerable worlds, there is a world at the farthest limit named True Sovereignty.

There dwells a Buddha named One Jeweled Canopy Supreme Tathagata, Worthy One, Perfectly and Completely Awakened One, Perfect in Knowledge and Conduct, Well-Gone One, Knower of the World, Unsurpassed Worthy One, Tamer of Beings, Teacher of Gods and Humans, Buddha, Blessed One. He respectfully sends his inquiries to the World-Honored One: ‘Are you free from illness and affliction? Are your movements light and easy, your strength well balanced, and are you peaceful and joyful?

Are worldly affairs bearable? Are sentient beings easy to guide to liberation?’” He then presented those one thousand golden lotus blossoms to the World-Honored One for use in the Buddha’s work.

Thereupon, Śākyamuni Buddha accepted those lotus blossoms and scattered them back toward the innumerable Buddha worlds in the northwest. Through the Buddha’s spiritual power, these flowers fell throughout all those Buddha lands. Within the calyx of every flower sat a magically manifested Buddha in the full lotus posture, teaching the Dharma corresponding to the Great Prajnaparamita to the bodhisattvas. Any sentient being who heard it was certain to attain unsurpassed perfect awakening.

When Ratnavijaya and his attendants witnessed this, they leaped for joy and praised it as unprecedented. Each, according to the measure of their roots of virtue and the abundance or scarcity of their offerings, reverently made offerings to, honored, and praised the Buddha and the bodhisattvas. They then withdrew and sat to one side.

In this same manner, from that world at the farthest limit all the way to this realm, in every Buddha land to the northwest there were Tathagatas who were then teaching the wondrous Dharma to their assemblies. In the presence of each of those Buddhas was also a foremost bodhisattva who, upon seeing this great radiance, the shaking of the lands, and the bodily marks of the Buddha, stepped forward and addressed the Buddha: “World-Honored One! What causes and conditions have brought forth these auspicious signs?”

Each of those Buddhas then replied: “To the southeast lies the Sahā World, where there is a Buddha named Śākyamuni who is about to teach the Dharma of the Great Prajnaparamita to the bodhisattvas. These auspicious signs have appeared through that Buddha’s spiritual power.”

After hearing this, all the foremost bodhisattvas rejoiced, and each requested permission to travel to the Sahā World to behold, venerate, and make offerings to the Buddha and the bodhisattvas. Those Tathagatas praised their intention and granted them permission to go. Each Tathagata gave them one thousand golden lotus blossoms adorned with precious jewels and instructed them: “Take these flowers to that Buddha and fully convey my message: ‘I respectfully inquire whether you are free from illness and affliction; whether your movements are light and easy, your strength well balanced, and whether you are peaceful and joyful; whether worldly affairs are bearable;

and whether sentient beings are easy to guide to liberation.’ Then present these lotus blossoms to the World-Honored One for use in the Buddha’s work.

When you reach that realm, perceive it correctly. When you see that Buddha land and its bodhisattvas, do not give rise to contempt and thereby harm yourselves. Why?

Because the majestic virtue of those bodhisattvas is difficult to equal. Impelled by their vows to liberate sentient beings and for the sake of a great cause, they have taken birth in that realm.”

Each foremost bodhisattva accepted the flowers and respectfully obeyed the instruction. Together with immeasurable and innumerable bodhisattvas, young men, and young women, they took leave of their Buddha, brought offerings with them, and set out. In every Buddha land through which they passed, they made offerings to the Buddha and bodhisattvas, omitting none.

When they arrived before Śākyamuni Buddha, they bowed their heads at the Buddha’s feet, circumambulated him hundreds of thousands of times, presented the flowers, and fully conveyed their message. After accepting the flowers, the Buddha scattered them back toward the northwest. Through the Buddha’s spiritual power, the flowers fell throughout all those Buddha lands. Within the calyx of every flower was a magically manifested Buddha teaching the Dharma of the Great Prajnaparamita to the bodhisattvas, ensuring that those who heard it would attain unsurpassed perfect awakening.

After witnessing this, the foremost bodhisattvas and their attendants rejoiced and praised it as unprecedented. Each, according to the measure of their roots of virtue and the abundance or scarcity of their offerings, reverently made offerings to, honored, and praised the Buddha and the bodhisattvas. They then withdrew and sat to one side.

At that time, the world at the farthest limit beyond innumerable worlds below was named Lotus. There dwelt a Buddha named Lotus Virtue Tathagata, Worthy One, Perfectly and Completely Awakened One, Perfect in Knowledge and Conduct, Well-Gone One, Knower of the World, Unsurpassed Worthy One, Tamer of Beings, Teacher of Gods and Humans, Buddha, Blessed One. He was dwelling there peacefully, teaching the Dharma of the Great Prajnaparamita to assemblies of great bodhisattvas.

There was a bodhisattva named Lotus Supreme who, upon seeing this great radiance, the shaking of the lands, and the bodily marks of the Buddha, became perplexed. He approached the Buddha, bowed his head at the Buddha’s feet, and said: “World-Honored One! What causes and conditions have brought forth these auspicious signs?”

The Buddha Lotus Virtue then told Bodhisattva Lotus Supreme: “Good man! Above this realm, beyond innumerable worlds, there is a world at the farthest limit named Sahā. There dwells a Buddha named Śākyamuni, Tathagata, Worthy One, Perfectly and Completely Awakened One, Perfect in Knowledge and Conduct, Well-Gone One, Knower of the World, Unsurpassed Worthy One, Tamer of Beings, Teacher of Gods and Humans, Buddha, Blessed One. He is now dwelling there peacefully and is about to teach the Dharma of the Great Prajnaparamita to assemblies of great bodhisattvas. These auspicious signs have appeared through that Buddha’s spiritual power.”

When Lotus Supreme heard the Buddha’s words, he leaped for joy and again addressed the Buddha: “World-Honored One! I now request permission to travel to the Sahā World to behold, venerate, and make offerings to the Tathagata Śākyamuni and the assemblies of great bodhisattvas who have attained unimpeded understanding, dharani gateways, samādhi gateways, and sovereign mastery of spiritual powers, who are in their final bodies and will succeed to the position of Buddhahood. I humbly beseech you to show compassion and grant me permission!”

The Buddha Lotus Virtue then told Bodhisattva Lotus Supreme: “Excellent! Excellent! Now is indeed the proper time. You may depart.”

The Buddha immediately took one thousand golden lotus blossoms, each with a thousand petals and adorned with precious jewels, gave them to Bodhisattva Lotus Supreme, and instructed him: “Take these flowers to Śākyamuni Buddha and convey my message exactly as instructed: ‘The Tathagata Lotus Virtue respectfully inquires whether you are free from illness and affliction; whether your movements are light and easy, your strength well balanced, and whether you are peaceful and joyful; whether worldly affairs are bearable; and whether sentient beings are easy to guide to liberation.’ Then present these lotus blossoms to the World-Honored One for use in the Buddha’s work.

When you reach that realm, perceive it correctly. When you see that Buddha land and the great assemblies there, do not give rise to contempt and thereby harm yourself. Why?

Because the majestic virtue of those great bodhisattvas is difficult to equal. Impelled by their vows to liberate sentient beings and for the sake of a great cause, they have taken birth in that realm.”

Bodhisattva Lotus Supreme accepted the flowers and respectfully obeyed the instruction. Together with immeasurable hundreds of thousands of innumerable great bodhisattvas, both monastic and lay, as well as innumerable hundreds of thousands of young men and young women, he bowed his head at the Buddha’s feet, circumambulated him to the right, and took his leave. Each carried immeasurable varieties of flowers, incense, banners, canopies adorned with precious jewels, garments, precious ornaments, and other offerings, and then they set out. As they passed through innumerable Buddha lands below, they reverently made offerings in, honored, and praised every Buddha land they reached, omitting none.

When he arrived before Śākyamuni Buddha, he bowed his head at the Buddha’s feet, circumambulated him hundreds of thousands of times, and then withdrew to stand at one side. Bodhisattva Lotus Victory came forward and addressed the Buddha: “World-Honored One! Below this realm, beyond innumerable worlds, there is a world at the furthest limit called Lotus, where a Buddha named Lotus Virtue, the Tathagata, Worthy One, Perfectly and Completely Awakened One, Perfect in Knowledge and Conduct, Well-Gone One, Knower of the World, Unsurpassed Person, Tamer of Those to Be Tamed, Teacher of Gods and Humans, Buddha, Blessed One, abides.

He has earnestly asked after the World-Honored One: ‘Do you have little illness and little affliction? Are your movements light and easy, your strength well-regulated, and are you dwelling in peace and happiness? Are worldly conditions bearable?

Are sentient beings easy to guide?’” He then took those thousand golden-colored lotus flowers and presented them to the World-Honored One for the performance of Buddha-work.

At that time, Śākyamuni Buddha accepted the lotus flowers and scattered them back toward the innumerable Buddha-worlds below. Through the Buddha’s spiritual power, the flowers fell throughout all those Buddha-realms. Within the calyx of every flower sat a transformation Buddha in the lotus posture, teaching the Dharma corresponding to the Great Prajnaparamita for the bodhisattvas. Any sentient being who heard it would certainly attain the fruit of unsurpassed awakening.

At that time, Lotus Victory and his retinue, having witnessed this, leaped for joy and praised it as unprecedented. Each, according to the extent of their roots of goodness and the abundance or scarcity of their offerings, reverently made offerings to, honored, and praised the Buddha and the bodhisattvas. They then withdrew and sat to one side.

In this same manner, from that world at the furthest limit to this realm, in every Buddha-realm below there were Tathagatas then teaching the wondrous Dharma to the great assembly. Before each of those Buddhas was also a foremost bodhisattva who, upon seeing the great radiance, the earth trembling, and the manifestations of the Buddha’s body, approached the Buddha and asked: “World-Honored One! What are the causes and conditions for these auspicious signs?”

Each of those Buddhas replied: “Above this realm is a world called Endurance, where there is a Buddha named Śākyamuni, who is about to teach the Dharma of the Great Prajnaparamita to the bodhisattvas. These auspicious signs have appeared through that Buddha’s spiritual power.”

Upon hearing this, each of the foremost bodhisattvas rejoiced and requested permission to travel to the Endurance World to behold, venerate, and make offerings to the Buddha and the bodhisattvas. Those Tathagatas praised their intention and permitted them to go. Each gave them a thousand-jeweled lotus flower of pure golden color and instructed them: “Take this flower to that Buddha and convey my message in full: ‘I earnestly ask whether you have little illness and little affliction, whether your movements are light and easy, your strength well-regulated, and whether you are dwelling in peace and happiness.

Are worldly conditions bearable? Are sentient beings easy to guide?’ Then present this lotus flower to the World-Honored One for the performance of Buddha-work. When you reach that realm, perceive it correctly.

Upon seeing that Buddha-realm and its bodhisattvas, do not give rise to contempt and thereby harm yourselves. Why is this? The awe-inspiring virtue of those bodhisattvas is difficult to equal.

Impelled by their vows to liberate sentient beings and because of great causes and conditions, they were born in that realm.”

Each foremost bodhisattva accepted the flower and respectfully obeyed the command. Together with immeasurable and innumerable bodhisattvas, boys, and girls, they took leave of their Buddha and set forth, bearing offerings. In every Buddha-realm through which they passed, they made offerings to the Buddha and bodhisattvas, omitting none.

When they arrived before Śākyamuni Buddha, they bowed their heads at the Buddha’s feet, circumambulated him hundreds of thousands of times, presented the flowers, and conveyed everything in full. After accepting the flowers, the Buddha scattered them back toward the lower direction. Through the Buddha’s spiritual power, the flowers fell throughout all the Buddha-realms. Within the calyx of every flower was a transformation Buddha teaching the Dharma of the Great Prajnaparamita to the bodhisattvas, causing those who heard it certainly to attain the fruit of unsurpassed awakening.

Having witnessed this, the foremost bodhisattvas and their retinues rejoiced and praised it as unprecedented. Each, according to the extent of their roots of goodness and the abundance or scarcity of their offerings, reverently made offerings to, honored, and praised the Buddha and the bodhisattvas. They then withdrew and sat to one side.

At that time, the world at the furthest limit beyond innumerable worlds above was called Joy, where a Buddha named Joyful Virtue Tathagata, Worthy One, Perfectly and Completely Awakened One, Perfect in Knowledge and Conduct, Well-Gone One, Knower of the World, Unsurpassed Person, Tamer of Those to Be Tamed, Teacher of Gods and Humans, Buddha, Blessed One, dwelt securely and taught the Dharma of the Great Prajnaparamita to the great bodhisattvas. There was a bodhisattva there named Joyful Longevity. Upon seeing this great radiance, the trembling of the earth, and the manifestations of the Buddha’s body, he became perplexed. He approached the Buddha, bowed his head at the Buddha’s feet, and asked: “World-Honored One! What are the causes and conditions for these auspicious signs?”

At that time, Joyful Virtue Buddha said to the great bodhisattva Joyful Longevity: “Good man! Below this realm, beyond innumerable worlds, there is a world at the furthest limit called Endurance, where a Buddha named Śākyamuni, the Tathagata, Worthy One, Perfectly and Completely Awakened One, Perfect in Knowledge and Conduct, Well-Gone One, Knower of the World, Unsurpassed Person, Tamer of Those to Be Tamed, Teacher of Gods and Humans, Buddha, Blessed One, now dwells securely and is about to teach the Dharma of the Great Prajnaparamita to the assembly of great bodhisattvas. These auspicious signs have appeared through that Buddha’s spiritual power.”

Upon hearing this, Joyful Longevity leaped for joy and again addressed the Buddha: “World-Honored One! I now request permission to travel to the Endurance World to behold, venerate, and make offerings to Śākyamuni Tathagata and the assemblies of great bodhisattvas—those who have attained penetrating understanding, dharani gateways, samadhi gateways, and mastery of spiritual powers; who are in their final existence and will succeed to the status of Buddha. I beseech you compassionately to grant me permission!”

At that time, Joyful Virtue Buddha said to Bodhisattva Joyful Longevity: “Excellent! Excellent! Now is indeed the right time. You may set forth.”

The Buddha then took a thousand lotus blossoms of pure golden color. Each flower had a thousand petals and was adorned with various jewels. He gave them to Bodhisattva Joyful Longevity and instructed him: “Take these flowers to Śākyamuni Buddha and convey my message as instructed: ‘Joyful Virtue Tathagata earnestly asks whether you have little illness and little affliction, whether your movements are light and easy, your strength well-regulated, and whether you are dwelling in peace and happiness.

Are worldly conditions bearable? Are sentient beings easy to guide?’ Then present these lotus flowers to the World-Honored One for the performance of Buddha-work. When you reach that realm, perceive it correctly.

Upon seeing that Buddha-realm and its great assemblies, do not give rise to contempt and thereby harm yourself. Why is this? The awe-inspiring virtue of those bodhisattvas is difficult to equal.

Impelled by their vows to liberate sentient beings and because of great causes and conditions, they were born in that realm.”

At that time, Bodhisattva Joyful Longevity accepted the flowers and respectfully obeyed the command. Together with immeasurable hundreds of thousands of innumerable great bodhisattvas, both monastics and householders, and innumerable hundreds of thousands of boys and girls, he bowed his head at the Buddha’s feet, circumambulated him to the right, and then took his leave. Each bore immeasurable varieties of flowers, incense, banners, canopies adorned with jewels, garments, precious ornaments, and other offerings, and they set forth. As they passed through innumerable Buddha-realms above, they reverently made offerings, honored, and praised the inhabitants of every Buddha-realm they reached, omitting none.

When they arrived before Śākyamuni Buddha, they bowed their heads at the Buddha’s feet, circumambulated him hundreds of thousands of times, and then withdrew to stand to one side. Bodhisattva Hỷ Thọ came forward and addressed the Buddha: “World-Honored One! Above this realm, beyond innumerable worlds, there is a world at the furthest extremity named Joy, where a Buddha named Joyful Virtue abides.

The Tathagata, Worthy One, Perfectly and Completely Awakened One, Perfect in Knowledge and Conduct, Well-Gone One, Knower of the World, Unsurpassed Person, Tamer of Those to Be Tamed, Teacher of Devas and Humans, Buddha, Bhagavan, respectfully inquires after the World-Honored One: ‘Do you have little illness and little affliction? Are your movements light and easy, your strength well balanced, and are you at peace and happy?

Are worldly circumstances bearable? Are sentient beings easy to guide?’” He then took those thousand golden-hued lotus flowers and offered them to the World-Honored One for the performance of Buddha-work.

At that time, Śākyamuni Buddha accepted those lotus flowers and scattered them back toward the innumerable Buddha-worlds above. Through the Buddha’s spiritual power, the flowers fell throughout all those Buddha-realms. Upon the calyx of every flower sat a manifested Buddha in the lotus posture, teaching the Dharma corresponding to the Great Prajnaparamita for the bodhisattvas. Any sentient being who heard it would certainly attain the fruit of unsurpassed awakening.

At that time, Hỷ Thọ and his retinue, having witnessed this, rejoiced and leapt with delight, praising it as unprecedented. Each, according to the depth of their wholesome roots and the abundance or scarcity of their offerings, reverently made offerings to, honored, and praised the Buddha and the bodhisattvas. Having done so, they withdrew and sat to one side.

In this same manner, from that world at the furthest extremity down to this one, in every Buddha-realm above there were Tathagatas then teaching the wondrous Dharma to their assemblies. In the presence of each of those Buddhas was also a foremost bodhisattva who, upon seeing that great radiance, the trembling of the lands, and the Buddha’s bodily appearance, approached the Buddha and asked: “World-Honored One! What causes and conditions have brought forth this auspicious sign?”

At that time, each of those Buddhas replied: “Below is a world named Endurance, where a Buddha named Śākyamuni abides. He is about to teach the Dharma of the Great Prajnaparamita for the great bodhisattvas. Through that Buddha’s spiritual power, this auspicious sign has appeared.”

When the foremost bodhisattvas heard this, they rejoiced, and each requested permission to travel to the World of Endurance to behold, pay homage to, and make offerings to the Buddha and the bodhisattvas. Those Tathagatas praised their intention and permitted them to go. They gave them thousand-petaled jeweled lotus flowers of golden hue and instructed them: “Take these flowers to that Buddha and convey my words in full: ‘I respectfully inquire after you.

Do you have little illness and little affliction? Are your movements light and easy, your strength well balanced, and are you at peace and happy? Are worldly circumstances bearable?

Are sentient beings easy to guide?’ Then take these lotus flowers and offer them to the World-Honored One for the performance of Buddha-work. When you reach that realm, perceive it correctly. When you see that Buddha-realm and its bodhisattvas, do not give rise to contempt and thereby bring harm upon yourselves.

Why is this? The majestic virtue of those bodhisattvas is difficult to equal. Impelled by their vows to liberate sentient beings, and because of great causes and conditions, they were born in that realm.”

Each foremost bodhisattva accepted the flowers and respectfully received the command. Then, together with immeasurable and innumerable bodhisattvas, boys, and girls, they took leave of the Buddha, brought offerings with them, and set out on their journey. In every Buddha-realm through which they passed, they made offerings to the Buddha and the bodhisattvas, without omitting a single realm.

When they arrived before Śākyamuni Buddha, they bowed their heads at the Buddha’s feet, circumambulated him hundreds of thousands of times, presented the flowers, and reported everything in full. After the Buddha accepted the flowers, he scattered them back toward the upper direction. Through the Buddha’s spiritual power, the flowers fell throughout all the Buddha-realms. Upon the calyx of every flower was a manifested Buddha teaching the Dharma of the Great Prajnaparamita for the bodhisattvas, ensuring that those who heard it would certainly attain the fruit of unsurpassed awakening.

The foremost bodhisattvas and their retinues, having witnessed this, rejoiced and praised it as unprecedented. Each, according to the depth of their wholesome roots and the abundance or scarcity of their offerings, reverently made offerings to, honored, and praised the Buddha and the bodhisattvas. Having done so, they withdrew and sat to one side.

At that time, all the Buddha-realms throughout this three-thousandfold world-system were filled with precious treasures. Many kinds of precious flowers were scattered over the ground, while jeweled banners, streamers, and canopies were arranged everywhere. Flowering trees, fruit trees, fragrant trees, luxuriant trees, jeweled trees, garment trees, and trees adorned with various ornaments stood intermingled, magnificently adorning the entire realm and making it exceedingly delightful. It was like the realm filled with lotus flowers in the Pure Land of the Tathagata Universal Flower. Bodhisattva Mañjuśrī, Bodhisattva Thiện Trụ Tuệ, and immeasurable great bodhisattvas possessing majestic virtue and great spiritual powers all dwelt therein.

Volume 02

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