經律異相 49.18

49.18

For rebirth in heaven or falling into hell, each has welcomers. When a person is sick and on the verge of death, their eyes personally see them come to welcome them. For those due to be born in heaven, devas bearing heavenly garments, music, and entertainments come to welcome them. For those due to be born in other regions, their eyes see venerable persons preaching wondrous words for them. For those due to fall into hell, their eyes see soldiers holding swords, shields, spears, halberds, and ropes surrounding them. What they see is different, yet their mouths cannot speak. Each follows what they have done to receive their karmic retribution. Heaven is never unjust or arbitrary; it is impartial and without bias. Following what one has done, the net of heaven administers justice (from the *Jìngdù sānmèi jīng*. The *Avataṃsaka-sūtra* states: "When a person is on the verge of death, they see the signs of the intermediate existence. Those who practiced evil karma see the three evil paths and experience suffering, or see Yama holding various weapons, binding and taking them away, or hear cries of pain. If they practiced good deeds, they see the heavenly palaces, divine maidens, adornments, and joyful amusements, such supreme matters").