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192
LALITA-VISTARA.
to acquire this S'ákya youth they would not in the least add to their radiance."
The Rishis, after hearing this verse from the god, descended on the carth, and beheld the Bodhisattva engaged in contemplation, and resplendent with an immensity of light around his body. They approached the Bodhisattva, and bepraised him in verses. Among them one said:
"In this world burning with afflictions he is born as a lake. Ile will acquire that religion wherewith he will quench the world."
Another said:
"In this world, immersed in the darkness of ignorance, he is born as a lamp. He will acquire that religion wherewith he will enlighten the world."
Another said:
On the highway of the ocean of grief, he is evidently the noblest vehicle. He will acquire that religion wherewith he will ferry mankind over the creation.
Another said:
"The redeemer of those who are enthralled by affliction is born. He will acquire that religion wherewith he will disenthral all creation."
Another said:
"There is born the great physician for those who are afflicted with disease and decay. He will acquire that religion wherewith he will wipe off birth and death."
The Rishis, having gratified the Bodhisattva with these verses, circumambulated his person by the right side, and passed away through the sky.
King Suddhodana, who was never at case in the absence of, and without seeing, the Bodhisattva, enquired "where is the Prince goue? I do not see him bere."
Then a large party went forth in search of the Prince. A minister saw the Prince seated on a couch under the Jambu tree, and engaged in contemplation. At that time the shadow of
