諸經要集 13.9

13.9

As the Sūtra on Experiencing Immediate Retribution by Practicing the Seven Practices says: At that time, the Bhagavat told the bhikṣus: 'There are seven kinds of persons who should be served and respected; they are the unsurpassed puṇyakṣetras of the world. What are the seven kinds of persons? The first practices benevolence (maitrī). The second practices compassion (karuṇā). The third practices joy (muditā). The fourth practices equanimity (upekṣā). The fifth practices emptiness (śūnyatā). The sixth practices signlessness (animitta). The seventh practices wishlessness (apraṇihita). If there are sentient beings who practice these seven dharmas, they obtain their fruit and retribution in the present life.' Ānanda addressed the Buddha, saying, 'Why do you not speak of srotāpannas, sakṛdāgāmins, anāgāmins, arhats, or pratyekabuddhas, but speak instead of these seven matters?' The Bhagavat told him, 'The practice of the seven persons who practice benevolence is equal to that of srotāpannas up to Buddhas, but their matters are different. Although one makes offerings to srotāpannas and the others, one does not obtain immediate retribution; however, one who makes offerings to these persons obtains retribution in the present life. Therefore, Ānanda, you should be diligent and valiant in accomplishing these seven dharmas.'