集神州三寶感通錄 2.52

2.52

48. In the spring, the second month of the third year of the Longshuo reign of the Tang, an image appeared in Qinzhou. Over sixty li north of the prefecture, halfway up a cliff in a long valley within the boundary of Mianshang County, there was an ancient Buddha niche. Inside were three stone images; the central image constantly emitted light that illuminated the forest and valley. Finding it extraordinary, the villagers reported the matter to the prefecture, which subsequently reported it to the throne. The emperor then decreed that the monk Xuanxiu of Da Cien Temple in the capital, along with envoys, ride relay horses to go and investigate. Upon ascending and arriving, they immediately saw light like fire, flowing and soaring, appearing and disappearing, burning continuously without interruption. At times, white clouds arrived at the cave, and the light briefly hid; when the clouds departed, the light appeared. They immediately reported back in haste. An imperial decree ordered it to be drawn and re-investigated; the light was again as before, shining continually for three nights as bright as initially. Handed down to the present, the light still has not ceased. Formerly, in the ninth year of the Zhenguan reign, I once traveled through the Qin region, touring for three years within the boundary of Mianshang. In the scenic sites of mountain forests, there were many ancient traces among the stone niches and Buddha images, none knowing their origins, yet I saw no auspicious signs—truly this was a source of karmic obstruction. Now being in the Three Metropolitan Districts, I have heard of this wonder, and record it as told.