法苑珠林 43.5

43.5

It is heard that the flying emperor rules over the four continents. When the remote borderlands disobey commands, the seven treasures subdue them with authority; when the ten virtues lead and transform, a thousand sons manifest in response. Encompassing the distant and near, he dwells alone in the Central Plain, unleashing the nurturing care of a compassionate father and inspiring the loyal ministers of devoted infants. Having resided in the world for an extended duration, cravings and desires multiply all the more. Reaching the peak of military majesty, he gazes afar contemplating divine recompense. Thereupon, exerting the fierce power of turning the wheel, he soars to the palace of Śakra Devendra. Planning and measuring beyond his proper station, he falls back and loses the status of a cakravartin. Harassed by acute grief and anguish, his plight is as severe as the calamity of falling into mud and charcoal. Mournful is this pain! Truly lamentable indeed!