法華傳記 7.64

7.64

Li Tong, Vice Prefect of Jizhou, made a vow to copy seven sets of the Lotus Sūtra for his deceased wife, and went to Jishan Monastery to make offerings. In a dream a heavenly maiden appeared in the air and said to Tong: “Relying on your merit, my retribution in the ghost realm has been altered, and I have now been born in Trāyastriṃśa.” Tong said he wished to draw near to her. The heavenly woman said: “A human body is utterly foul and filthy; one cannot draw near to it. If you cultivate this good karma, you will be born in the same heaven and become my consort.” Suddenly she was gone. After waking, his longing, sorrow, and joy did not cease. He died at eighty-six. An extraordinary fragrance filled the room, and he was welcomed by heavenly beings.