Lesson of the Destructible and the Indestructible
In the tranquil garden of Amrapali, where the Lord expounded the Dharma, a remarkable transformation unfolded. The space seemed to stretch endlessly, and a radiant golden glow enveloped the entire assembly. Intrigued by these auspicious signs, venerable Ánanda turned to the Buddha, asking for their significance.
The Buddha revealed, “Ánanda, these signs herald the arrival of the Licchavi Vimalakirti and Crown Prince Manjusri, accompanied by a vast multitude, to our presence.”
Prompted by Vimalakirti, Manjusri agreed to bring the assembly before the Buddha. With a miraculous gesture, Vimalakirti lifted the entire gathering onto his palm and transported them to the Buddha’s presence. There, he humbly bowed at the Buddha’s feet before withdrawing to the side.
Bodhisattvas from various Buddha-fields descended from their thrones, paying homage to the Buddha before stepping aside. Even celestial beings and gods joined in reverence.
The Buddha welcomed them, inviting them to take their thrones. Turning to Shariputra, he inquired about the bodhisattvas’ extraordinary feats.
Shariputra admitted, “Lord, their actions are beyond my comprehension. They appear inconceivable, defying judgment or imagination.”
Ánanda, noticing a unique fragrance, questioned its origin. The Buddha explained that it emanated from the bodhisattvas’ pores, a result of partaking in food from the Buddha-field of Sugandhakuta.
Vimalakirti clarified that the fragrance would linger until the food was digested, a process spanning forty-nine days, followed by seven more days without discomfort. He elucidated how the food’s digestion correlated with the spiritual progress of those who consumed it.
Ánanda marveled at the food’s transformative properties, acknowledging its embodiment of Buddha’s work. The Buddha elaborated on the various means by which Buddha-fields facilitated enlightenment, emphasizing the diverse paths to discipline beings.
Reflecting on the countless virtues of Buddhas, the Buddha imparted the profundity of their enlightenment. Ánanda humbly renounced his claim as the foremost learned, recognizing the incomprehensibility of bodhisattvas’ wisdom and deeds.
The Buddha reassured Ánanda, affirming his distinction among disciples while highlighting the unfathomable nature of bodhisattvas. He emphasized the bodhisattva path’s arduous yet compassionate essence.
Bodhisattvas from Sugandhakuta sought guidance on remembering the Buddha upon returning to their realm. The Buddha expounded on the liberation of bodhisattvas, balancing engagement with the world and realization of the unconditioned.
He delineated the bodhisattva’s path, emphasizing the cultivation of virtues, compassion, and wisdom, all while remaining engaged in the world. This balance, he declared, epitomized the bodhisattva’s liberation, both destructible and indestructible.
Filled with reverence and joy, the bodhisattvas showered the Buddha and his assembly with offerings, expressing their gratitude. With prayers of praise, they vanished from the Saha universe, returning to Sugandhakuta, their hearts uplifted by the teachings they had received.
Link: https://wisdomtea.org/2024/05/09/lesson-of-the-destructible-and-the-indestructible/
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