法苑珠林 7.36

7.36

As stated in the Sūtra on Inquiring about the Hells and the Sūtra on the Samādhi of Pure Deliverance: 'Overall, the hells encompass one hundred and thirty-four realms.' First, the names and places of the hell masters are described. King Yama was formerly the king of Vaiśālī. He waged war against King Vaideha, but his military forces were no match. Thereupon, he made a vow wishing to become the lord of the hells. His eighteen ministers commanded a host of one million; their heads had horns and ears, and all were filled with fury. Together they made the vow: 'Later we shall assist in punishing these sinners.' The former king of Vaiśālī is the present King Yama; the eighteen great ministers are the present minor kings; and the host of one million are the present wardens (apāṅgas).