________________
160
FO-SHO-HING-TSAN-KING.
III, 14.
Obtaining which, these sorrows come apace; despicable joys! oh, who would covet them! using such mighty efforts (means) to obtain, and yet unable thence to banish pain. 1140
Alas, alas! these Devas, too, alike deceived-no difference is there! thro' lapse of ages bearing suffering, striving to crush desire and lust, 1141
Now certainly expecting long reprieve, and yet once more destined to fall! in hell enduring every kind of pain, as beasts tearing and killing one the other, 1142
As Pretas parched with direst thirst, as men worn out, seeking enjoyment; although, they say, when born in heaven, then we shall escape these greater ills,' 1143
Deceived, alas! no single place exempt, in every birth incessant pain! Alas! the sea of birth and death revolving thus-an ever-whirling wheel — 1144
All flesh immersed within its waves cast here and there without reliance ! thus with his pure Deva eyes he thoughtfully considered the five domains of life. 1145
He saw that all was empty and vain alike! with no dependence! like the plantain or the bubble. Then, on the third eventful watch, he entered on the deep, true' apprehension?; 1146
He meditated on the entire world of creatures, whirling in life's tangle, born 8 to sorrow; the crowds who live, grow old, and die, innumerable for multitude, 1147
for A That is, the deep apprehension of truth. • Sorrow self-natured.
Digitized by Google