釋氏要覽 2.380

2.380

In Sanskrit it is *Yamarāja*; here this means "to restrain", referring to restraining [beings] so that they do not commit evil. The *Yogācārabhūmi-śāstra* asks: 'Is King Yama called the "Dharma King" because he is able to harm, or because he is able to benefit?' It answers: 'Because he benefits sentient beings. When sentient beings are seized and brought to the king's presence, in order to make them recollect, he manifests a body resembling theirs and announces: "You created this yourselves; you must receive its fruit!" By bringing about the hell [retribution], no new karma is accumulated, so that when the karma is exhausted they are released from hell. Therefore, because he is able to benefit all sentient beings, he is called the Dharma King.'