經律異相 36.32

36.32

In the city of Śrāvastī there was a wealthy elder who died without a son, and all his money and wealth were confiscated by the state. When the elder was alive, he ate coarse and vile food, wore singular and tattered clothing, and used tree leaves for cover. The Buddha said, "Although he attained an eminent position, he did not nourish his own body, nor did he nourish his children, nor did he provide for his parents; he had no intercourse with friends, nor did he give in charity to śramaṇas. Today, with his life ending, he enters the Hell of Wailing." The Buddha said, "In the past, he gave food in charity to a pratyekabuddha. After giving it, he regretted it in his heart, saying, 'I did not give this to my slaves and servants, but instead to a shaven-headed śramaṇa!' Because of this wholesome recompense, he was reborn seven times in heaven and seven times among humans, always attaining nobility and wealth. Because of his regretful heart, this is his karmic retribution: he does not eat good food, does not wear good clothing, nor does he crave the five desires. King Prasenajit, you should diligently practice vigor and eliminate indolence!" (Extracted from the Sūtra on the Elder Who Died Childless)