釋鑑稽古略續集 1.29

1.29

Chan Master Pangu: Named Lishui, a native of Haiyan. The master had plain features, but his aspirations were lofty and extraordinary, and he read widely in the sūtras and histories. By nature he delighted in mountains and waters. During the Zhiyuan era, he traveled to the famous mountains and scenic sites of Wutai, Emei, Funiu, and Shaoshi. He once said, "My footprints cover half the world, and my poetic renown fills the realm." At that time, the imperial son-in-law, the King of Shen of Goryeo, heard of the master's virtue and prestige, prepared letters to invite him, and asked him to lecture on the general meaning of the Avataṃsaka Sūtra at Huiyin Monastery in Hangzhou. The master unfolded the four unhindered eloquence, and the seven assemblies were won over and bowed in admiration. The King was greatly pleased, and the master's reputation grew even weightier. Later he arrived at a vihāra in Song Prefecture, where he diligently cultivated pure karma, reciting the name of Amitābha Buddha as a daily practice. Over seventy years of age, without illness, he announced the time in advance, sat upright, and passed away. He had a three-fascicle Collection of Poems on Roaming the Mountains, which circulated in the world (Biographies of Eminent Monks).