往生集 2.321

2.321

In the Great Ming, Layman Wu was from a prominent family of Xin'an, taboo name Jixun, courtesy name Yongqing, with the style Layman Shiru. Endowed with a solemn, resolute nature, he was simple as uncarved wood and straight as an arrow. He loved performing various good deeds, relishing them without satiety as if nectar. In his later years, he immersed his mind in the inner scriptures, upheld the Rebirth Dhāraṇī, and recited the great name of Amitābha Buddha, with a fixed daily quota, unswerving throughout cold and heat without interruption. Once he fell into the river; his feet seemed supported by something, and after drifting for ten li, he leapt onto a boat; everyone considered this to be induced by the Buddha's power. Suddenly he suffered from a serious back carbuncle, so critical that others could not bear their anxiety, yet the layman conversed and laughed cheerfully, at ease as if free from illness or suffering. Soon after, in correct mindfulness, he manifested cessation. His son Baizhang, of the lineage of Ziyu, was what is called a person of good faith whose words are without falsehood; the account of conduct he set forth was like this.