A History of Indian Literature v2.c19.s6.t4.23

v2.c19.s6.t4.23

myriads of ages previously: "Excellent, excellent, Lord Sākyamuni, the religious discourse called 'Lotus of the Good Religion' has been well expounded by thee. Yes, so it is, so it is, Lord Buddha (Sugata)." The same chapter relates: The Bodhisattva Mañjuśrī proclaimed the "Lotus of the Good Religion" in the kingdom of the Nāgas at the bottom of the ocean, and the youthful daughter of the Nāga king heard the sermon, and understood all the doctrines. As a result she attains to enlightenment and changes her sex on the spot.¹ The merit of the preacher of the "Lotus" and of the faithful hearing of this sermon is praised again and again. Thus it is said in Chapter XXII: