仁王護國般若波羅蜜多經疏 3.506

3.506

Exposition: Indicating the calamity is as before. Now in the second year of Yongtai, the bingwu year, in the sixth month of summer, from the summer there was a lack of rain. Prayers were offered to various mountains and rivers for over a period, yet ultimately there was no auspicious response. Having written and expounded up to this point, feeling ashamed, I could not proceed. Facing the scroll and reflecting deeply, I ventured to state a sincere petition. At that time, it was by chance encounter; proof is insufficient to verify it. The Emperor's celestial wisdom looked down and, condescendingly, inquiries were made. On the thirtieth day of that month, an imperial edict stated: 'The true scripture of the Benevolent Kings has as its essential purport the protection of the state. The Master's expounding of its wondrous tenets entails vast vows that run ever deeper. Consequently, compassionate clouds have gathered their shade, and the Dharma rain has flowed in moisture; the seasonal crops have grown luxuriant, and an abundant year is promised. The merit of your utmost sincerity is deeply praised and rejoiced in.' This was truly due to the supreme way of the enlightened ruler, the deep faith of the great ministers, and the protection rendered by the compassionate power of the bodhisattvas of the five directions. From here on is the seventh, the calamity of bandits coming from the four quarters.