經律異相 33.57

33.57

Kuṇāla and his wife returned from the kingdom of Takṣaśilā to King Aśoka's place. Neither had ever walked upon the bare ground since birth. Their bodies were soft and frail, unfit for labor. Kuṇāla was skilled at playing the lute and could also sing and play wind instruments. Along their way, they begged for food to sustain their lives, gradually traveling until they reached their home country. Wishing to enter the palace gate, the gatekeeper at that time would not allow them to proceed. Unable to proceed, they turned back, went out, and stayed in the carriage and horse stables. During the latter part of the night, he played the lute and sang. His song went: "My eyes are lost; the Four Truths have been seen." Again he spoke a verse: