分別功德論 4.36

4.36

The reason why Bhikṣu Uttara was praised for constantly delighting in charnel grounds is that this bhikṣu was a disciple of Ānanda. Before the master attained the Path, he reflected in his own mind: 'This body has transmigrated, leaving no place unexperienced. When in the heavens, clothes and conveyances were spontaneous, but now they have been abandoned; when among humans as a cakravartin, with the seven treasures leading and attending, that too has passed away; when among animals constantly eating grass and thorns, this too has passed away; when among hungry ghosts taking molten copper as food, or in hell facing blades and swords, all these forms of retribution have passed away. Now having obtained a human body, my allotment will conclude right here. What was valued in ancient and modern times are all discarded things, illusory and perilous forms; not one is worthy of attachment, and all ought to be cast aside.' He then stayed in charnel grounds and further reflected: 'Even if I wished to stay under trees or among mountains and marshes, these are all coveted by living people; only charnel grounds are disliked by people.' For this reason he dwelt there. 'Those that delight in charnel grounds are only ghosts, together with creatures like foxes, wolves, crows, and kites; I should now enter the samādhi of benevolence to save those kinds.' On this account he again dwelt in charnel grounds. Due to these causes and conditions, he constantly delighted in charnel grounds and did not dwell among people; therefore he was praised as foremost.