古今譯經圖紀 4.16

4.16

The śramaṇas Senglang and Jueyi, the Palace Attendant Cui Guang, and others served as scribes. The Emperor often invited [Ratnamati] to lecture on the Avataṃsaka Sūtra, whose phrasing and meaning brought illumination. Suddenly, from his high seat, an imperial officer holding a tablet was seen, who said: 'The Lord of Heaven invites the master to lecture on the Avataṃsaka.' Ratnamati replied: 'Currently, the Dharma assembly has not yet concluded; once the scripture is finished, I shall obey the command. However, the Dharma is not supported by one person alone; pray settle upon inviting the head lecturer, the incense tender, the karmadāna, and the chanter as well.' The messenger agreed to his words. As the lecture was drawing to an end, the previous messenger was seen coming to welcome them. Indeed, [Ratnamati] and the five persons, including the head lecturer, passed away together upon their seats. Both monastics and laypeople present at the lecture all witnessed it.