法苑珠林 70.39

70.39

Eighth is what is called human death: the four hundred and four ailments arise all at once together; the four great elements are about to disperse, and the conscious spirit becomes restless. The wind departs and breath ceases; the fire extinguishes and the body turns cold. Wind goes first and fire next; the conscious spirit departs and is lost. The body stiffens straight, no longer knowing anything. Within ten days, the flesh rots and blood flows, bloating, rotting, and foul-smelling, with nothing whatsoever worthy of regard. There are worms within the body that turn around to eat its flesh. Sinews and vessels rot away completely, and the joints of the bones come undone and scatter. Skull, thigh, and shin each lie in different places. Flying birds and running beasts vie to come and eat them. Heavenly dragons, ghosts, spirits, emperors, kings, commoners, the poor, the rich, the noble, and the lowly—none escape this affliction. Having seen these transformations, I therefore go forth to seek the Way, not wishing to undergo them again. This is my eighth teacher." The Buddha thereupon spoke verses, saying: