經律異相 25.8

25.8

Formerly in Jambudvīpa, there was a great king named Viliṅgali whose heart delighted in the wondrous Dharma. There was a brāhmaṇa named Raudrākṣa who came to the palace gate and said, 'I can expound the Dharma. If you are able to pierce your body with a thousand nails, then I will explain it for you.' The king said, 'In saṃsāra, I have surrendered my life countless times, either for the three poisons; the accumulated white bones would be higher than Sumeru, the shed blood would exceed the five lakes, and the weeping tears would be more than the vast oceans. In vain I gave up my life and body, never for the sake of the Dharma. Now I drive nails to seek the Way. When I realize buddhahood in the future, I will sever your fetters with the sword of wisdom. Take care not to obstruct my mind of supreme enlightenment!' The great multitude remained silent. Then Raudrākṣa himself recited the gāthā: