諸經要集 8.5

8.5

It is heard that the profound kindness of the Triratna and the compassionate father of the four kinds of beings nurtures the ten directions, regarding all equally as an only child. There is no subtle capacity that is not overseen; where wisdom approaches, it must comfort. Thus King Udayana carved a statue whose radiant light rose luxuriantly, and King Prasenajit cast an image, stepping down from his seat in awe. Ever after, miraculous omens responded repeatedly and good fame spread afar, like grass bending before the wind. By mindfulness of them, sins are extinguished and blessings arise; by revering them, goodness aids distant generations. This is truly because the Tathāgata nurtures our dharmakāya, while parents nourish our physical body. Since their kindness and virtue are so deep, even vast heaven is hard to repay. How much more so if one violates such heavy kindness—would one not sink forever in the ocean of suffering? For this reason, when a woman was poisoned, her husband received the state's reward; when a woodcutter harmed a beast, both of his arms fell off. Therefore, the Dazhidulun says: 'Knowing kindness is the root of great compassion, the opening gate to good karma; such a person is loved and respected by others, their fame spreads far and wide, upon death they are born in heaven, and ultimately attain buddhahood. Those who do not know kindness are worse than animals.'