諸經要集 7.33

7.33

At that time, the Tathāgata accepted Ānanda's invitation and went at once to his house. Then those people, seeing the Bhagavat from afar, each wiped their face with their hands and came forward to welcome the Buddha. Arriving at the Buddha's presence, they bowed their heads at his feet. Choked with grief, they were unable to utter a word. Just as they wished to heave a deep sigh, out of reverence for the Buddha they did not dare to exhale, but choked back their breath and stood still. At that time, the Buddha said to the elder's parents and the others: “Why do you weep and grieve, clinging to this illusory phenomenon?” Those people spoke at once and addressed the Buddha, saying: “Bhagavat, in this city he alone was intelligent and wise, handsome and extraordinary. Being in the prime of his youth, among all men he was unsurpassed. Furthermore, he possessed abundant wealth and jewels; his storehouses overflowed; carriages, horses, clothing, male and female slaves, and servants—all such things were fully provided, with nothing lacking. Suddenly, in a single day, his life came to an end. For this reason we weep and yearn for him, unable to bear it. Excellent, Bhagavat! We pray that for our sake you will skillfully teach the Dharma so that we may leave behind all distress, and from this day forward never again suffer such afflictions.” At that time the Bhagavat said to the elder's parents, clan relatives, friends, and the great assembly: “Have you ever seen anyone who was born and did not experience old age, illness, and death?” The people addressed the Buddha, saying: “We have never seen such a person.” The Buddha further said to the great assembly: “If you wish to be free from birth, old age, illness, death, sorrow, lamentation, pain, and distress, turn your minds from the bonds of affectionate attachment, fix your purpose on right view, and take refuge in the Triratna. Why is that? In all worlds there is none who surpasses the Buddha in guiding the blind and foolish masses. The Dharma taught by the Buddha is indeed good medicine.”