佛祖統紀 28.12

28.12

In the Sui dynasty, there were two novices by the Wenshui River who were united in their aim of reciting the Buddha’s name. After five years, the elder one died first and attained birth in the Pure Land. Seeing the Buddha, he rejoiced and said to the Buddha, “There is a younger novice who cultivated together with me; I do not know whether he can attain birth or not.” The Buddha said, “Originally you had no mind to recite the Buddha’s name; it was because of his encouragement. You should now return and cultivate Pure Land karma even more diligently; after three years, you may come here together.” When the time came, the Buddha and the assembly of sages came from the west to welcome them. The great earth shook, and heavenly flowers fluttered down. The two novices passed away at the same time.