神僧傳 8.50

8.50

Shi Wenshuang's origins are unknown. Early on, he untied the worldly entanglements and broke through the net of attachment, following masters to inquire into the Way. By nature, he did not sleep; even when utterly exhausted, he would merely sit cross-legged. Later, he dwelt alone among hills and burial mounds. Continuous rains poured for ten days, and he had no attendants by his side. A snake entered Shuang's hand and coiled itself there. At that time, someone invited him to a vegetarian meal, and finding it strange that he did not arrive when the hour came, the host came again to invite him. Seeing the snake, the host cried out in terror. The snake then slowly slid down. The host insisted on him going to eat, but Shuang declined, as it had passed noon, when he would not eat. The next day, a wolf opened its mouth wide and leaped forward vigorously three times, as if about to bite and chew him. Shuang took pity on its hunger and thought to himself, "This impure bag of flesh does not begrudge giving you a single meal. May you quickly attain an adamantine body, and having received my gift, may we together return to a good gathering." In an instant, the wolf lowered its ears and retreated. When the day of his death came, the sounds of bells and chime stones echoed together in mid-air, ceasing only after a long time.