法苑珠林 17.30

17.30

The Śākya transformative sage, the Benevolent One,
Observed the capacity of beings and descended from heaven.
Exalted above all the holy ones,
He was truly the foremost of sovereigns.
Nurturing all in harmony and peace,
He cleansed his pure essence in the profound abyss.
With compassionate instruction to sentient beings,
He skillfully guided them to the central mystery.
His grace extended the torch of wisdom,
Illuminating our nocturnal journey.
Transforming in accord with capacities,
Who could know his lifespan?
Looking up to him, he rises like the dawn clouds;
Approaching him, he is a ferry in the mist.
Taking pity with his physical form,
Grieving with his spirit.
Once the three vehicles had been widely propagated,
He relinquished his body in the Twin Trees.
Provisionally proclaiming nirvāṇa,
The true Dharma is ever real.