Early in this story, Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara of Mount Potalaka in the South Sea received Buddha's guidance.
Now, she was searching for virtuous individuals in Chang'an City who could undertake the sacred journey to obtain the scriptures. After a considerable time, she had yet to find someone with genuine virtue.
One day, news reached her about the virtuous deeds of Emperor Taizong and his plans to hold a grand assembly. Additionally, she learned that the chief monk presiding over the event was none other than Jiangliu, who had descended from paradise and was also an elder she had initially guided in his rebirth[1].
Filled with joy, the Bodhisattva brought forth precious treasures gifted by Buddha and offered them for sale along the bustling streets. What were these treasures, you might wonder? A unique brocade kasaya and a nine-ring pewter staff. The set of three golden rings was tucked away for later use. Only the robe and staff were put up for sale. Then she transformed herself and Muzha into monks with ragged appearances, afflicted with rashes, wearing worn-out robes, barefoot, and with shaven heads.
Some monks didn't make the cut for joining the assembly, but they lingered in the city and had a bit of money saved up. When they saw the disguised Guanyin holding a radiantly glowing kasaya, they approached and asked, "Hey, scabbed monk, how much are you selling that robe for?"
The Bodhisattva replied, "The robe is worth five thousand taels of silver, and the pewter staff is worth two thousand taels."
The foolish monks burst into laughter. "These two scabbed monks must be crazy! They're fools! You want to sell these two rough things for seven thousand taels of silver? Unless wearing them grants eternal life and immortality, or you become a Buddha and an ancestor, they're not worth that much! Take them away! No deal!"
The Bodhisattva didn't argue further and continued her stroll with Muzha. After walking for quite a while, they arrived at the East Flower Gate.
Just then, Minister Xiao Yu returned from court, and the crowd was parting to make way for him. The Bodhisattva boldly walked straight ahead, not avoiding anyone. Holding the kasaya in hand, she directly approached the prime minister.
Xiao Yu pulled on the reins of his horse to take a closer look. He saw the kasaya emitting a radiant glow and instructed his attendant to inquire about the price.
The Bodhisattva replied, "The robe is five thousand taels, and the tin staff is two thousand taels."
Xiao Yu questioned, "What's so special about them to warrant such a high price?"
Bodhisattva said, "The robe has its benefits and drawbacks; there are times when it requires payment and times when it doesn't."
Xiao Yu asked, "What are the benefits and drawbacks? When does it require payment, and when doesn't it?"
The Bodhisattva replied, "Wearing my kasaya keeps you safe from sinking into despair, from falling into hell, from encountering malicious harm, and from facing the dangers of wild beasts. These are the benefits. However, suppose you're a foolish monk who indulges in lustful pleasures, an unobservant monk who neglects fasting and precepts, or a common person who blasphemes the scriptures and the Buddha, then it's difficult for you to witness the presence of my robe. These are the drawbacks."
Then he inquired, "When does it require payment, and when doesn't it?"
The Bodhisattva replied, "If one disrespects the Buddha's teachings and the Three Jewels[2] and merely seeks to buy the robe and staff, then the price is seven thousand taels of silver. This is when the goods require payment. However, if one reveres the Three Jewels, finds joy in goodness, takes refuge in my Buddha, and is truly prepared, I willingly offer the robe and staff as a gift, forging a virtuous connection. This is when the goods don't require payment."
Upon hearing this, Xiao Yu's demeanor brightened, recognizing the Bodhisattva's virtue. He dismounted, respectfully greeted the Bodhisattva, and said, "Venerable Elder, forgive my transgressions. Our Emperor of the Great Tang greatly values goodness, and his civil and military courtiers faithfully follow suit. As we are currently organizing a grand Water and Land Dharma Assembly, this robe would be fitting for the venerable Chan Master Xuanzang. Allow me to accompany you to the imperial court."
The Bodhisattva gladly agreed and followed along. With confident steps, they entered through the East Flower Gate. The palace gatekeepers announced their arrival and admitted them into the main hall.
Seeing Xiao Yu leading the two leprous monks to him, Emperor Tang inquired, "Why has Xiao Yu come to report?"
Kneeling before the steps, Xiao Yu explained, "Upon leaving the East Flower Gate, I saw these two monks selling a kasaya and a staff. I thought the venerable Chan Master Xuanzang could use such attire, so I brought them to request an audience."
Emperor Tang was pleased and inquired about the value of the robe.
The Bodhisattva and Muzha stood below the steps to the throne without performing the customary bows. When asked about the price of the robe, the Bodhisattva replied, "The robe is worth five thousand taels, and the staff is worth two thousand taels."
Emperor Tang asked, "What merits does this kasaya possess that justifies such a high price?"
The Bodhisattva said, "This robe is like a dragon's strand, protecting from the peril of the great peng's devouring. It hangs like a crane's thread, bestowing the wondrous grace of transcending the ordinary and attaining the sacred. While wearing it, you'll be honored by myriad deities' salutations. In your every movement, seven Buddhas shall accompany you. This kasaya is spun from ice silkworms' threads, crafted by skilled artisans, woven by celestial maidens, and perfected by divine women. Every inch is adorned with embroidered flowers, each stitch contributing to its magnificent tapestry. It shimmers with scattered fragments, like a contest of colorful blossoms, radiating vibrant hues and showering brilliance. When worn, a cloak of red mist encircles you; when taken off, it transforms into a trail of colorful clouds soaring. Beyond the gates of heaven, it radiates primal light; before the Five Sacred Mountains, it emits an aura of treasures. Embedded within are layers of Western Lotus gems, sparkling like constellations in the sky. Night-illuminating pearls adorn the corners, and an emerald gleams atop the crown. Though it may not completely reveal its original essence, it radiates the brilliance of eight precious gems.
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This kasaya, when folded in leisure, holds a simple form; yet, when worn by the virtuous, it stuns celestial beings. When folded, it layers like a myriad of rainbows within; when donned by the wise, it arouses fear among gods and ghosts alike. Adorning its surface are jewels of wish fulfillment, mani, dust-dispelling, and wind-settling. Also present are red agate, purple coral, night-illuminating pearl, and sarira. Its white gleam rivals the moon's, while its red glow competes with the sun's. Beams of celestial qi fill the void, each bloom carrying auspicious light for the sacred. These beams, aglow, pierce through the heavenly gates; these radiant blooms scatter their light throughout the world. Illuminating mountains and rivers, they startle tigers and leopards; casting shadows upon seas and islands, they stir fish and dragons. Two lines of golden locks run along the seams, while a strand of white jade ornaments adorns the collar. As in the poem:
> Three treasures towering, revered they stand,
> Four births, six realms, subject to their command.
> With a clear heart, nurturing heavenly ways,
> Transmitting wisdom's lamp in radiant blaze.
>
> Guarding the body, a golden realm sublime,
> Pure in body and mind, like ice in prime.
> Since Buddha's robe was woven in grace,
> Who in ten thousand eons would dare to deface?"
Upon hearing this, Emperor Tang ordered the kasaya to be unfolded and carefully examined it from top to bottom. Indeed, it was a fine piece. He spoke, "Great Venerable, I shall not hide the truth from you. Presently, I am promoting virtuous teachings and sowing the seeds of blessings. I have gathered many monks at the Rebirth Monastery to expound the scriptures. Among them is a monk of great virtue known as Xuanzang. I wish to purchase these two treasures from you to bestow upon him. What is your asking price?"
The Bodhisattva heard this and, with palms joined and showing reverence, chanted the Buddha's name. With a bow, she responded, "Since he possesses virtue, this humble monk is willing to offer them to him without any cost." After speaking, the Bodhisattva turned, leaving the kasaya and staff.
Emperor Tang quickly reached out and grabbed Xiao Yu, making him stop them. He asked respectfully, "You initially mentioned a price of five thousand taels for the robe and two thousand taels for the staff. Now that I want to purchase them, you suddenly say you won't accept any money. Are you implying that I'm relying on my position and trying to force you to give up your belongings? This doesn't make sense at all. I am willing to pay you the price you originally stated, and there's no need to avoid this."
The Bodhisattva raised his hand and said, "From the beginning, I made a vow that if someone sincerely respects the Three Jewels, rejoices in goodness, and embraces my Buddha path, I wouldn't ask for money. I'm willing to offer these items to them. Now that I see Your Majesty's virtuous and benevolent nature, your reverence for our Buddhist teachings, and the high virtue and conduct of the esteemed monk who spreads the Dharma, it is only fitting to present these items without expecting payment. I am determined not to accept money. I am leaving these belongings here and will take my leave."
Her sincere words deeply moved the Tang Emperor. He immediately ordered a grand feast at the Guanglu Temple to express his gratitude.
However, the Bodhisattva firmly declined the offer once again. With a contented heart, they departed and returned to the Earth God Temple.
Now, let's talk about what happened next. Emperor Taizong convened a midday court session and ordered Wei Zheng to deliver a decree, summoning Xuanzang to the court. At that moment, the venerable monk was leading a congregation on the platform, reciting verses from the scriptures. As soon as he heard the royal decree, he descended from the platform, adjusted his robes, and accompanied Wei Zheng to the imperial presence.
Emperor Taizong spoke, "Your pursuit of virtuous deeds is much appreciated, and your efforts are not in vain, Master Xuanzang. There's no need for any material compensation. Earlier, Xiao Yu welcomed two monks who generously offered a splendid brocade kasaya and a unique pewter staff. Now, I've specially invited you here to receive them."
Xuanzang bowed in gratitude, and Emperor Taizong continued, "If it's not too much trouble, Master Xuanzang, would you please put on the kasaya for us to see?"
The venerable monk then unfolded the robe and draped it over himself, holding the staff in his hand as he stood before the steps. Both the emperor and his subject were delighted. Truly, he was a worthy disciple of the Buddha.
Behold this sight:
> Dignified, noble, beauty pure and bright,
> Buddha's robe drapes perfectly, just right.
> Radiant splendor fills the cosmic space,
> A tapestry of colors, a wondrous embrace.
>
> Pearls of wisdom, a ladder high and low,
> Golden threads weaving, both to and fro.
> Brocade adorning, seams on every side,
> Myriad wonders in patterns that abide.
>
> Eight treasures adorn, bound with silk strands,
> Golden rings, neck wrapped, beauty grand.
> Buddhas and heavens, ranking side by side,
> Celestial patterns where stars do preside.
>
> Xuanzang, the master, fated to receive,
> This treasure before us, it's hard to believe.
> As if from Pure Land, living Arhat's light,
> Outshining Western Realm's most radiant sight.
>
> His staff strikes with nine rings' harmonious sound,
> Pi Lo Hat richly adorned, truly renowned.
> As a true Buddha's child, without a deceit,
> More profound than enlightenment's purest seat.
Cheers erupted from the assembly of officials and generals. Emperor Taizong was overjoyed beyond words. He immediately instructed the monk to keep the kasaya and carry the precious staff. He also granted two escort teams and ordered the courtiers to accompany the monk to the palace gate. Then, he instructed Xuanzang to walk through the main street, heading towards the temple like a champion celebrating victory.
Xuanzang again expressed his gratitude and proceeded along the bustling street with grandeur and dignity.
In the streets of Chang'an, merchants and traders, noble sons and daughters, poets and scholars, young and old alike, all vied to catch a glimpse, showering praises and admiration. They exclaimed, "What an incredible monk! He's like a living Arhat descended from above, a living Bodhisattva gracing the mortal realm."
Xuanzang proceeded to the temple, where the monks came out to greet him. As soon as they saw him adorned in this kasaya and holding the staff, they believed it was Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva himself arriving. They all flocked to him, paying their respects and standing by his side.
Xuanzang ascended the temple's platform, lit incense, and paid homage to the Buddha. After expressing his gratitude to everyone, he invited them to return to their meditation cushions.
Unbeknownst to them, the sun had started its descent in the western sky. It was just like this:
The sun dipped, shrouded in mist and the shadows of trees. The city's bells and drums began to chime, their echoes reverberating through the streets. A hush settled over the bustling avenues. Bright lanterns and flickering lights illuminated the temple above while the countryside lay quiet and deserted. Monks entered a deep state of meditation, contemplating the profound sutras. It was the perfect time to battle inner demons and nurture the soul.
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[1] Nope, neither I nor you missed that part. They only did foreshadowing in poems. And who reads these, right? I wrote them, and I still didn't read them.
[2] The Three Jewels of Buddhism, also known as the Triple Gem, are the fundamental pillars of Buddhist practice and belief. They consist of the Buddha, the enlightened teacher who discovered the path to enlightenment; the Dharma, the teachings and guidance offered by the Buddha to lead individuals on the path to liberation; and the Sangha, the community of ordained monks and nuns who provide support, practice, and the preservation of the teachings. Buddhists take refuge in these Three Jewels, seeking guidance from the Buddha, following the teachings of the Dharma, and connecting with the spiritual community of the Sangha to attain inner wisdom, compassion, and liberation from suffering.