大方便佛報恩經 2.27

2.27

"'At that time, after the donor had finished making each arrangement, he went out in person to inspect everywhere, looking for where there might be a wide and level ground to set up the platform for giving. He then established it in a pure place, removing sand, saline soil, stumps, and thorns. The ground being purified, he laid out bedding, carpets, rugs, and mats. Having prepared the seating places for the great assembly, he harnessed five hundred great elephants to carry food and drink, transporting them toward the giving platform. The food and drink were like mountains, the milk and curd like ponds; with ghee, sesame oil, cakes, and dried meats, all kinds of delicacies, complete with the hundred flavors. Moreover, there were various clothes, pearls and rings, fine bracelets, elephants, horses, and the seven treasures, all fully prepared, and the adornment was finished. After seven days, when the morning star appeared, also on the morning of the seventh day, bells were struck, drums were beaten, great conch shells were blown, and a loud proclamation was made: "All you great assembly! Come and gather at the platform of the great donor!"