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FO-SHO-HING-TSAN-KING.
IV, 16.
The honoured of the world, (wishing) to instruct this hermit and convert him, asked him, on coming, for a place to lodge that night. Kasyapa, replying, spake to Buddha thus: 'I have no resting-place to offer for the night, 1306
Only this fire grot where I sacrifice, this is a cool and fit place for the purpose, but an evil dragon dwells there, who is accustomed, as he can, to poison men.' 1307
Buddha replied, 'Permit me only, and for the night I'll take my dwelling there.' Kasyapa made many difficulties, but the world-honoured one still asked the favour. 1308
Then Kåsyapa addressed Buddha, ‘My mind desires no controversy, only I have my fears and apprehensions, but follow you your own good pleasure.' 1309
Buddha forthwith stepped within the fiery grot, and took his seat with dignity and deep reflection; and now the evil Naga seeing Buddha, belched forth in rage his fiery poison, 1310
And filled the place with burning vapour. But this could not affect the form of Buddha. Throughout the abode the fire consumed itself, the honoured of the world still sat composed : 1311
Even as Brahma, in the midst of the kalpa-fire that burns and reaches to the Brahma heavens, still sits unmoved, without a thought of fear or apprehension, 1312
(So Buddha sat); the evil Naga seeing him, his face glowing with peace, and still unchanged, ceased his poisonous blast, his heart appeased; he bent his head and worshipped. 1313
Kâsyapa in the night seeing the fire-glow, sighed;
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