釋氏要覽 3.361

3.361

The Nanshan chao (Commentary by Nanshan) states: Inside the Hall of Impermanence, place a standing image coated with gold leaf, facing west. Fastened to the middle finger of its left hand is a five-colored banner, with the end of the banner trailing on the ground. When a monk is severely ill, he should be bathed, his clothes changed, and he should be placed (behind the image), with his left hand grasping the end of the banner, signifying the intention of following the Buddha to be reborn [in the Pure Land]. The caregiver should burn incense, scatter flowers, invite monks to chant, and expound the Dharma according to his capacity (there is a detailed passage in the commentary). If he becomes extremely critical, do not move him again; merely leave him behind the image to await the end of life. If there is vomiting, spitting, or bowel movements, the caregiver may clean them up as needed without fault (there are questions and answers in the commentary).