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FO-SHO-HING-TSAN-KING.
1,1.
not within reach of the gain he will give, to be derived from his teaching as the Bodhisattva; not permitted to hear his righteous law, 108
'My body worn out, after death, alas! (destined) to be born as a Deval still liable to the three calamities (old age, decay, and death), (therefore I weep).' The king and all his household attendants, hearing the words of the Rishi, 109
Knowing the cause of his regretful sorrow, banished from their minds all further anxiety: 'And now (the king said) to have begotten this excellent son, gives me rest at heart; 110
But that he should leave his kingdom and home, and practise the life of an ascetic, not anxious to ensure the stability of the kingdom, the thought of this still brings with it pain.' II
At this time the Rishi, turning to the king with true words, said, 'It must be even as the king anticipates, he will surely arrive at perfect enlightenment.' 112
Thus having appeased every anxious heart among the king's household, (the Rishi) by his own inherent •spiritual power ascended into space and disappeared. 113
At this time Suddhodana râga, seeing the excellent marks (predictive signs) of his son, and, moreover, hearing the words of Asita, certifying that which would surely happen, 114
Was greatly affected with reverence to the child, he redoubled measures for its protection, and (was
· The condition of the highest Deva, according to Buddhism, does not exempt him from re-birth; subject to the calamities incident on such a renewal of life.
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