中天竺舍衛國祇洹寺圖經 1.48

1.48

The large courtyard to its north runs continuously from east to west, divided yet connected by large bridges, with only three gates. Two channels in the lane both flow west; rows of trees cast lush shade, flourishing constantly in winter and summer. The ground is flat and even, as pure as lapis lazuli; if there are grasses or leaves on the ground, humans and spirits sweep them away. Whenever any come to pay homage and tread upon this ground, there is none who does not tremble with awe; should there be the slightest negligence or indolence, non-human spirits scold and reprimand them, so that those who arrive never give rise to an evil thought. The main portal of the central courtyard is south of the great lane; it has a seven-storied pavilion, with nine bays and five gates, about two zhang in height and breadth. The Buddha would come and go here. Not far to the south, there is a black-lintel gate that also opens into five passages. Further south, a great bridge rises high, majestic and beautiful, below which water flows west, clean and clear. Further south, one arrives at the monastery's Great South Gate. Thus, for those who come, viewing it from the northern front, the layered splendor is so dazzling that it astounds the spirit and purges impurities; rubbing their eyes to gaze upon it, their five feelings are all resolved. To the left and right of the path are planted rows of wondrous flowering and fruiting trees of rare varieties, none knowing their names, and all who see them are filled with wonder.