往生集 1.99

1.99

Shanzhou of the Tang dynasty was a native of Yingzhou. In the third year of the Wude era, when his illness became critical, he said to his disciples, “Throughout my entire life I have held right faith; I have no anxiety about not being born in the Pure Land.” He then ordered them to sweep and clean the room and burn incense to prepare with solemnity. Having been ill for a long time, he was lying down weakly; suddenly he sat up, joined his palms, and said to the attendants, “Provide a seat for the Bhagavat to sit.” He also stated his repentance himself. After a long while, he said, “The Bhagavat has departed.” He bowed his body as if seeing someone off, and then lay down, saying, “Just now Amitābha Buddha came; did you see him or not? Before long, I shall depart.” Shortly afterward, he passed away.