佛祖統紀 34.4

34.4

If one wishes to know the great intention of the Tathāgata's arising in the world, one must first clarify the trace and origin, and ultimately proceed to the compilation of the Tripiṭaka to provide a model for the realm and later generations. In between, the eight phases are discussed in succession: the so-called descending from Tuṣita, lodging in the mother's womb, dwelling in the womb palace, manifesting birth, leaving the father's household, accomplishing the Buddha Way, turning the wheel of the Dharma, and entering nirvāṇa. Thereupon the transforming work of an entire lifetime was fully provided for. It begins with King Zhao's jiayin year and ends with King Mu's renshen year, serving as the broad outline.