樂邦遺稿 2.53

2.53

The Longshu Pure Land Writings says: "In our dynasty there were two monks named Qingcaotang. The earlier one was over ninety years old; a woman of the Zeng family often provided him with vegetarian feasts and gave him gifts of clothing and items. Caotang was grateful for her kindness and said to her: 'When this old monk dies, I shall become your son, Madam.' One day the woman suddenly gave birth; she sent someone to go check on Caotang, and he had already passed away seated. The son born was none other than Duke Zeng Lu. Because in his past life as a monk he had cultivated merit and wisdom, he passed the examinations at a young age, and later became prime minister. This too was an error: because he did not transcend birth and death but remained in the world of saṃsāra, becoming someone's son for the sake of petty favors, he did not free himself from craving and affection. His miscalculation was severe indeed."