Pictorial Biography of the Venerable Master Hsu Yun

from issue 34

--Composed by the Venerable Tripitaka Master Hua

--Illustrated by a Student of Prajna

--Translated by Disciple Bhiksu Heng Yo

#3 Both See a Curious Light

One day, Mr. and Mrs. Yu T'ang were pleased to see that the design and construction of the temple and bridge had been completed. That evening they both dreamt of a dark robed, sagely, elder cultivator who, astride a tiger and with Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva atop his head, pounced upon the bed.  Awaking in fright, they recounted their experience to each other. Afterwards, Mrs. Yu T'ang was pregnant. They happily recited the Buddha's name, read sutras, bowed to the Buddha, and drew near to good knowing advisors. Leaving evil dharmas far behind, their bliss did not wane.

The Gatha says:

Astride a tiger, entering the womb, seldom found in the world,

Manifesting atop his head, the Compassionate Hero's form,

Enlightening those of the five relations,1 with ever advancing vigor,

Everywhere saving those with sentience, never stopping to rest.

--to be continued

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1The five relationships: between prince and minister, father and son, husband and wife, brothers, and friends.

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