傳法正宗記 3.26

3.26

適會大士入國至其家。而淨德父子喜得所遇致禮。遂以其事問之。大士乃與辨之曰。昔汝二十之時。甞命一比丘於舍供養。其比丘雖小有戒行。而法眼未明。心不詣理。坐虛受汝惠。然其能少修行不陷惡趣。故報為此木耳以償於汝。初此比丘居汝舍時。汝諸家人皆不喜之。唯汝與其次子。能以誠待。故今耳𮏄獨汝父子得饗。復問淨德曰。汝年幾何。答曰。七十有九。大士因說偈曰。

It happened that the Mahāsattva entered the country and arrived at his home. Jingde and his son rejoiced at this fortunate encounter, paid homage, and subsequently questioned him about the matter. The Mahāsattva then explained it to them, saying: 'Formerly, when you were twenty, you once invited a monk to your home to receive offerings. Although that monk possessed a modest degree of vinaya conduct, his Dharma-eye was not yet clear, and his mind did not reach principle; he sat idly receiving your generosity. However, because he was able to practice a little cultivation, he did not fall into the evil destinies; therefore, as retribution, he has become this tree-ear to repay you. When this monk first stayed in your house, your other family members were all displeased with him; only you and your second son were able to treat him with sincerity. Therefore, now only you father and son are able to feast on this ear-fungus.' He then asked Jingde, 'How old are you?' He replied, 'Seventy-nine.' The Mahāsattva then spoke a gāthā, saying: