本願藥師經古迹 2.11

2.11

The Commentary says: Below this is the fifth section, on questions and answers resolving doubts. In this there are two: first, questions and answers; second, resolving doubts. This is the first. In the answer there are two: first, answering regarding the calamity of illness, as the sūtra says: 'from Bodhisattva Trāṇamukta said up to spoken extensively.' What is said here concerns the maximum limit; even if it is not complete, it is not without superior benefits, as the previous text of the sūtra said 'make offerings according to one's capability.' The *Fashe jing* says: 'For the poor, even a single lamp will suffice.' Regarding 'placing seven lamps before each': Master Mai says, 'Before the image is a stand, on which seven-wheel lamps are made, shaped like cartwheels. Before each image-stand is placed one wheel-lamp, and on each wheel are arranged seven lamp vessels.' Later is the answer regarding national calamities. In this there are also two: calamities of the state domain, and calamities of the retinue, as the sūtra says: 'from furthermore, Ānanda up to their multiple calamities will be resolved.' It is not only the sick who are helped, but the king's calamities are also relieved; this is the meaning here. The country has seven calamities, which can be understood from the text. 'Consecrated kings' refers to the paramount lords of states at the time of ascending the throne, when the minor kings and all officials each take water from the four great oceans to pour upon their heads. Saying 'the state domain will attain tranquility' means the second and third calamities are eliminated. 'Wind, rain, and grain will be timely' means the sixth and seventh calamities are eliminated. 'Free of disease and without [evil] spirits' means the first calamity is eliminated. 'Evil omens disappearing' means the fourth and fifth calamities are eliminated. The calamities of the king's retinue can be understood from the text.