宋高僧傳 22.26

22.26

Shi Diandian Shi (Master Diandian), origin unknown. During the Guangzheng era of the Meng family [Later Shu], he dwelt in seclusion in a mountain temple in Dayi, south of Qiongzhou, frequently wandering among market stalls and taverns. Although he had undergone tonsure and donned the dyed robes, he constantly acted as if mad. Whenever he interacted with others, he would invariably point his finger while speaking; hence, people referred to him by this name. If anyone invited him to a vegetarian meal, he did not abstain from meat or wine, taking this as standard practice, and the local folk did not loathe him for it either. When evening came, he would purchase yellow and white hemp paper, brushes, and ink, put them in his bosom or sleeves, and return. Walking several li, he would arrive at dusk thoroughly intoxicated. The chamber he dwelt in had an outer door, yet lacked four walls. Once he entered and shut the door, no one could reach him. At first, a young novice of a neighbouring monk crept over to spy on him and saw him holding a candle and sitting with his legs sprawled out, laying the paper and brushes before him, scolding and writing in large characters that no one could decipher. Often he would shout and sigh as if issuing verdicts and handing down punishments. After a long while, looking closely in the interplay of light and dark, there appeared fleetingly what seemed to be figures densely lined up like clerks of an official tribunal, yet their coats and skirts were not garments of this world. The observer was terrified and retreated. The next morning, when he subtly inquired about this matter, [the master] grew angry and refused to reply. Having lived there for several years, the people of Qiong and Zha all considered him miraculous and supernatural. Later, his end was unknown.