STRICKEN AT AN ANCIENT TEMPLE
ON HUANG SHA LING MOUNTAIN

      The Master reached Huang Sha Ling on the thirteenth. On the mountain top he found the ruins of an ancient temple, which offered no shelter. Since he could no longer walk, the master stopped here. He had not been eating, but deffecated frequently. Because he was without the strength to get up and leave this deserted area, he closed his eyes and waited for death to come. The Master did not regret any of his actions. One can see quite clearly that during his whole life, his best efforts never subsided. He was able to accomplish difficult tasks because his vows were solid and firm.

The Gatha says:

Although he was sick

he forced himself

to continue making

prostrations.

He lay down on the straw

and tasted bile,

like the King of Yueh.

Closing his eyes he waited

for death,

having truly put it

all down.

With no regrets for the

vows he made,

he remained in the

vastness of peace.