經律異相 18.16

18.16

At that time in South India there was a man who went forth into the True Dharma. He had few desires and was content, taking no pleasure in glory or prominence. He did not rub his body with butter or oil, did not bathe with hot water, and did not eat butter or oil. Constantly fearing birth-and-death, his four great elements were devoid of strength, and he could not attain the holy path. He then gave rise to this thought: 'Only Upagupta can explain the Dharma for me.' He immediately went to the country of Mathurā, joined his palms, and paid homage. Upagupta, seeing that this was his final rebirth, that he dreaded birth-and-death, was constantly displeased with coarse conditions, and did not desire glory, said to him: 'If you only follow my instruction, I will speak for you.' He answered: 'Yes.' Upagupta had various donors prepare an assortment of food and drink and bathe the assembly of monks. He also said to a young śramaṇa: 'You may bathe this monk with hot water, rub his body with butter and oil, and give him various fine foods.' After this monk had eaten food for several days, his body regained energy and strength. As soon as he heard the wonderful Dharma spoken by Upagupta, he contemplated with energetic striving and attained the fruit of an arhat. (From the Sūtra of King Aśoka, fascicle 9)