佛祖統紀 41.8

41.8

In the fourth year, the Emperor established a bodhimaṇḍa in the Daming Palace, which induced the manifestation of a Buddha light. The princes, princesses, attendants, and ministers all beheld the luminous sign, which lasted from midnight until cockcrow. Prime Minister Pei Mian submitted a memorial of congratulation. In the fifth year, a comet appeared in the east. An imperial decree instructed Tripiṭaka Master Amoghavajra to perform rituals, after which the comet fell. At that time, it did not rain throughout spring and summer; an imperial decree ordered the erection of an altar to pray [for rain], and after two days, a heavy downpour thoroughly soaked the ground. Earlier, Śramaṇa Zijue resided on Mount Ping, preaching sūtras to ghosts and spirits. Zhang Zhao, the military commissioner of Dangyang, personally entered the mountain to extend an invitation, saying: 'Zhao lacks governing skill, resulting in three years of severe drought; taking the blame upon myself brings no relief. I have heard that the dragon spirits stay by the Master to hear the Dharma and forget to make rain; I pray you give rise to great compassion.' The Master burned incense, looked toward the deep pool and cave from afar, and offered prayers; instantly clouds arose, sweet moisture poured down, and the year yielded an autumn harvest.