往生集 2.20

2.20

Ma Ziyun of the Tang was recommended as a filial and incorrupt candidate (xiaolian) and became county defender of Jingyi. While escorting tax grain to the capital, he encountered a windstorm, his boat sank, and he was imprisoned. Thereupon he single-mindedly engaged in buddhamanasikāra. After five years, he met with an imperial amnesty and retreated to dwell in seclusion at a mountain temple in Nanling. One day he said to others: 'Throughout my life I have vigorously and diligently engaged in buddhamanasikāra. Now my Western karma is accomplished, and I am about to go to be reborn in Peaceful Nourishment.' The next day, having bathed and put on new clothes, he sat upright with joined palms. An extraordinary fragrance filled the room. Joyfully he said: 'The Buddha has come to welcome me!' Having spoken, he passed away.