Pictorial Biography of the 
Venerable Master 
HSU YUN

Composed by the Venerable Tripitaka Master Hua

Translated by Disciple Bhiksu Heng Yo

Illustrated by a Student of Prajna

ATTENDANT OF THE HALL #20

    The pure rules of eating in the formal style are an important concern of all Buddhist monasteries. When the Tathagata wished to eat, he donned his robe, took his bowl and entered the city to make his begging rounds. However, since the conditions and climate of China are temperate and varied, the Sangha members do not go begging outdoors, but remain in the hall to eat pure vegetarian food. The Master undertook the bitter duties of being the monastery's Steward. With his mind set on enlightenment, he waited on tables in order to bear his share of responsibility. During this time, he tied up conditions with many beings of the ten directions.

The Gatha says:

The Great Bodhisattva Samantabhadra

Blends the myriads of flavors;

While Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva

Manages the heavenly kitchens.

Manjusri and Maitreya together

Respond to offerings,

While the sea-like assembly of Bodhisattvas

Engages in taking their meal.