往生集 2.311

2.311

In the Great Ming, Ge Yi'an, Dharma name Guangtai, was a native of Qiantang. By nature deeply filial, he accumulated good deeds all his life while deeply concealing his merits, not seeking recognition from others. In his later years he served the Buddha with utmost sincerity, forming two societies for spring and autumn with the monk Xuansu of Lingzhi to practice buddhamanasikāra and recite five sūtras of the Avataṃsaka. He suddenly said to others: 'My life's limit is approaching; I must prepare provisions for returning to the West.' He thereupon recited scriptures in his room, day and night without ceasing, setting his return date in advance for the twenty-first day of the twelfth month. Two evenings before, mother and son looked at each other and wept. The layman smiled and said: 'Where there is birth, there must be death; why grieve? I am now concentrating my spirit on the Pure Realm to meet Amitābha face to face. Be careful not to let affection disrupt my correct mindfulness.' He earnestly instructed only Xuansu to assist in recitation without intermingling idle talk. When the appointed time came, he passed away in silence.