法苑珠林 52.9

52.9

At that time, the Tathāgata accepted Ānanda's request and immediately went to their house. At that time, seeing the World-Honoured One from afar, those people each wiped their faces with their hands and came forward to welcome the Buddha. Having arrived at the Buddha's place, they bowed their heads to his feet, choked with sorrow and unable to speak. Just as they wished to heave a long sigh, out of reverence for the Buddha they did not dare exhale, holding their breath in choking silence. At that time, the Buddha addressed the elder's parents and others: “Why do you weep, lament, and cling to these illusory phenomena?” Those people spoke at the same time, saying to the Buddha: “World-Honoured One, in this city there was only this person who was intelligent, wise, handsome, and exquisite. His years were in their prime, and among men he had no superior. Moreover, he possessed abundant wealth and treasures, his storehouses brimming over, with carriages, horses, clothing, male and female slaves, and servants—all were fully equipped with nothing lacking. Suddenly in a single morning he passed away. For this reason, we weep, yearn, and cannot contain ourselves. Excellent, World-Honoured One! May you preach the Dharma skillfully for us, so that we may be freed from all afflictions and from now on never again experience such sufferings!”