往生集 3.46

3.46

Shao Biao of the Tang dynasty was a native of Zhenjiang. When he was a scholar, he dreamed he went to an official mansion called the Pacification Commission. Soon an official asked, 'Do you know why you have failed the examinations?' Biao replied that he did not know. The official then led Biao forward, where he saw clams boiling in a large cauldron, speaking in human voices and calling Biao's name. Biao was terrified and thereupon recited Amitābha Buddha. Just as he opened his mouth, the clams transformed into yellow sparrows and flew away. Biao later passed the examination and rose in office to Pacification Commissioner.