Text of Confucianism Part 02

SR No.: 007676
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: James Legge
Publisher: Oxford
Publication Year: 1882
Total Pages: 2405
Language: English
Classification: Book_English
File Size: 43 MB

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Thus having spoken by way of exhortation, with reverent mien he turned back to the Brahma heaven., 1190
III, 14.
O-WEI-SAN-POU-TI.
Buddha regarding the invitation of Brahma-deva rejoiced at heart, and his design was strengthened; greatly was his heart of pity nourished, and purposed was his mind to preach. 1191
Thinking he ought to beg some food, each of the four kings offered him a Pâtra; Tathagata', in fealty to religion, received the four and joined them all in one. 1192
And now some merchant men were passing by, to whom a virtuous friend 2,' a heavenly spirit, said: 'The great Rishi, the venerable monk, is dwelling in this mountain grove, 1193
'(Affording) in the world a noble field for merit 3; go then and offer him a sacrifice!' Hearing the summons, joyfully they went, and offered the first meal religiously. 1194
Having partaken of it, then he deeply pondered, who first should hear the law; he thought at once of Arâda Kâlâma and Udraka Râmaputra, 1195
1 Here the Buddha is called Tathagata. It is a point to be observed that this title is only used after the Bodhisattva's enlightenment.
⚫ There is a great deal said in Buddhist books about this expression 'virtuous,' or, 'good friend.' In general it means Bodhi or wisdom. It is used also in Zend literature to denote the sun (mithra); see Haug (Parsis), p. 209.
That is, giving the world a noble opportunity of obtaining religious merit. The expression 'field for merit' is a common one, as we say, 'field for work,'' field for usefulness,' and so on.
Who ought to be first instructed in religion; or, who should hear the first religious instruction (sermon). The first sermon is that which is sometimes called 'the foundation of the kingdom of righteousness.' It is given further on.
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