諸經要集 17.84

17.84

The Sipin xue jing also says: Common mortals may sometimes be inferior to animals, and animals may sometimes surpass humans. Why is this? A person commits sins without stopping and at death enters hell. When the retribution for sin is finished, he first becomes a hungry ghost. When the sin of the hungry ghost is finished, he turns into an animal. When the sin of the animal is finished, only then does he return to being a human. Because he finishes his sins among the animals, he then attains human form. Therefore, one should diligently practice good deeds and follow the teachings of the Three Honored Ones, leaving the three evil destinies forever behind to receive the bliss of gods and humans, and ultimately attain permanent liberation.