高僧傳 7.52

7.52

Shi Sengdao was a native of Jingzhao. He underwent pravrajyā at the age of ten and received instruction from a master, who taught him the Avalokiteśvara-sūtra. Having finished reading it, he consulted his master: "How many fascicles does this sūtra have?" Wanting to test him, the master said, "There is only this." Sengdao said, "The beginning says, 'At that time, Akṣayamati...', so I know that prior to 'that time' there must already have been events." The master was greatly delighted with him and gave him a copy of the Lotus Sūtra. Thereupon, Sengdao studied and investigated it day and night, roughly understanding the meaning of the text. Being poor and lacking oil and candles, he constantly gathered firewood to illuminate his study.