Legend has it that there is a Yongfu Temple in Dongping Prefecture, Shandong Province, established in the second year of the Liang Dynasty under Emperor Wu, founded by Master Wanhuai. So, why is he called Master Wanhuai? Because when he was seven or eight years old, his older brother joined the army, and there was no word on whether he was alive or dead. His mother cried all day. One day, the child asked his mother, "Mother, our family is living well, why do you keep crying? Tell me, I'll help share your worries." His mother said, "Child, you wouldn't understand! Your father is dead, your brother has been in the army for several years, with no news at all; how can I stand it!" As she said this, tears began to flow again. The child said, "Oh, really? What’s so hard about that? Mother, where is my brother? I'll go find him and bring back a message so you can stop worrying, okay?" His mother laughed through her tears, "Silly child, if your brother were just a hundred or two hundred miles away, it wouldn’t be a problem, but he’s in Liaodong, thousands of miles away. Even a strong man would take four or five months to get there; how can a child like you go?" The child said, "Even if he is in Liaodong, he's not off in the clouds; I will go find him!" He tied his shoes, straightened his clothes, bowed to his mother, and then took off like a shot. His mother couldn't stop him or catch up, and she became even more anxious. Neighbors came to persuade her, "The child is still young; how can he go so far? He will come back in a few days." Only then did his mother finally stop crying and sit quietly.
As the sun was setting, his mother looked around nervously and saw a small figure in the distance coming back. She thought to herself: "God bless, if my son is back, all my vegetarian meals and prayers would be worth it." She saw her son kneel down and say, "Mother, you're still awake? I've already made it to Liaodong and brought you a letter of safety." His mother smiled and said, "Child, you didn't have to go so far, saving me the worry. Don't tease me, how could you travel thousands of miles in a day?" The child said, "Mother, don't you believe me? Look!" He opened his bundle, took out the letter of safety, which was indeed written by his brother. He also took out an undershirt sewn by his grandmother, just like it. This drew the attention of the neighbors, who started calling him "Ten Thousand Returns." Later, he became a monk and was known as "Elder Ten Thousand Returns." He had great spiritual prowess and incredible powers, once swallowing two liters of iron needles in front of Shi Hu of Later Zhao, and taking out three relics from the top of his head in front of Emperor Wu of Liang. Therefore, Emperor Wu of Liang ordered the construction of the Yongfu Zen Temple as the ancestral hall of Elder Ten Thousand Returns, the cost of which is unknown.
Time flies, and the world changes. After the Great Ancestor passed away, those pleasure-seeking monks fell into depravity one by one. Only a few lazy monks remained in the temple, marrying wives, drinking alcohol, and getting into all sorts of trouble! In just a few days, they pawned the temple's robes, the bells, and the wooden fish, and exchanged the rafters and bricks of the hall for wine. The temple fell into disrepair, the Buddha statues collapsed, and it was desolate; the once-familiar sounds of bells and drums were now replaced by the rustle of wild grass and swirling smoke. For decades, no one bothered to repair it. Later, an elder from the West Indies, seeking tranquility in China, traveled through mountains and rivers for nearly a decade and finally arrived in China. He came to Shandong and spent nine years in silence within this dilapidated temple, truly contemplating:
The Buddha's teachings have no obstacles in words; one must seek the truth diligently in meditation.
One day, he suddenly thought, “This temple has fallen into such disrepair because of those lazy monks; it’s truly a pity! If I don’t take action today, who will? Moreover, there’s a wealthy official named Ximen Qing in Shandong, a member of the Jinyiwei, who recently held a banquet for Inspector Cai. He has seen the temple’s ruin and wants to rebuild it. If he can advocate for it, reconstruction will be imminent. I must pay him a visit.” Thus, he gathered his disciples, rang the bell and beat the drum, announcing the plan to rebuild the temple. What did this elder look like?
His Zen robe stained with crimson, with golden earrings dangling from both ears. In his hand, a staff shining like a mirror, with a hundred and eight pearls shimmering in the sunlight. Enlightenment lights the way, while money is the means; lifting the dreams of ordinary people awakens them. With thick brows, dark hair, and copper bell-like eyes, he was indeed an old holy monk from the Western Paradise.
After announcing his plan, the elder had his disciples bring the four treasures of the study to write a letter. This elder was truly the reincarnation of a Buddha or a Bodhisattva. He bid farewell to everyone, slipped on his Zen shoes, donned a bamboo hat, and made his way straight to Ximen Qing's house.
After bidding farewell to Ying Bojue, Ximen Qing returned to Wu Yuemiong's place and told her about Ying Bojue's recommendation of Shui Xiucai. Then he said, "I went to Dongjing a few days ago and many friends invited me to drink. Now I need to return the hospitality. I have some free time today, so let's get this done." He called for Daian and told him to get some food and drinks. He also instructed the servants to invite the guests separately. Then he took Yuemiong to see the little official at Li Pin'er's place. Li Pin'er smiled and brought out the little official. The kid was cute, like a little doll, and happily went into Yuemiong's arms. Yuemiong took him and said, "My child, you are so obedient. When you grow up, you will definitely be smart and clever." She also said to the kid, "You better be good to your mom!" Li Pin'er said, "What are you saying! Even if he becomes an official one day, he must first respect you, making sure you get your phoenix crown and fancy robes first!" Ximen Qing interjected, "Son, when you grow up, you should take the civil service exam, don't follow your father to become a military officer. Although it's glamorous, it's not as respectable." Just then, Pan Jinlian heard it outside, got really mad and started yelling, "Shameless whore, all you do is pop out kids! It hasn't been a few days since the Yellow Plum Festival, he's still just a little kid, raised by the King of Hell, how's he gonna be an official, or an old lady for that matter? Bad thing, shameless, how can you think of becoming a civil servant, not wanting to learn from your father!" She grumbled and cursed under her breath. At this time, Daian came in and said, "Fifth Madam, the Master’s in the hall." Pan Jinlian cursed, "You little brat, who do you think you are! Why are you coming to my room? He’s got his own mom to take care of him, you don't need to ask here!" Daian realized he was in the wrong place, turned around and went to Sixth Madam's room. When he reached the door, he coughed and said to Ximen Qing, "Second Master is in the hall." Ximen Qing said, "Second Master just left, why is he back?" Daian said, "He’ll figure it out when he steps outside."
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Ximen Qing had to leave Lady Yu and Li Ping'er and walk outside. Just as he was about to ask what was the matter with Ying Bojue, he saw a monk begging for alms come to Ximen Qing's doorstep and shout loudly, "Amitabha! Is this Master Ximen's house? Could the steward come out and announce: 'Supporting Guizi, safeguarding Lansun, seeking blessings and longevity. - Elder from the Tokyo alms-giving group requesting an audience.'" Ximen Qing was a generous spender and had just had a son, so he was happy and wanted to do something good to bless his child. The servants understood the situation and didn't stop him; they quickly went in to report to Ximen Qing. Ximen Qing said, "Let him in." After a while, the monk was ushered into the flower hall, greeted, and said, "This humble monk comes from West India, traveled to Tokyo Bianliang, practiced at Yongfu Temple for nine years, and gained some understanding. It's just that the temple has been in disrepair for many years, and as a disciple of the Buddha, I must do my part for the faith, so I had this idea. A few days ago when the elderly donors were departing, they also pitied the dilapidated temple and were willing to help. The Buddhas and Bodhisattvas bear witness. The Buddhist scriptures say: if someone donates money to repair a Buddha statue, they can bless their descendants, bring them honor, wealth, and early success in the imperial examinations. So I came to seek help; no matter how much, I hope the donors will have a kind heart and accumulate merit." He opened a brocade cloth, took out a donation ledger, and handed it over with both hands. Ximen Qing was deeply moved when he heard this, gladly accepted the donation ledger, and asked a servant to bring tea. When he opened it, it read:
The teachings of the White Horse that opened the path to the Elephant's teachings. In all corners of the earth, monks all revere the Buddha; in the three thousand worlds, all are adorned like a pure land. What is this crumbling rubble compared to the majestic mountains and beautiful landscapes? If one does not cultivate compassion and generosity, how can one be called a child of the Buddha? Now there is the Yongfu Zen Temple, an ancient site of Buddhist practice, a place of cultivation and blessings. Founded by Emperor Wu of the Liang Dynasty, the mountain was established by the great master Wan Hui. The regulations are grand, reminiscent of the Golden Paved Ground of the Solitary Garden; the intricately carved halls, faintly resembling the White Jade Steps of the Deer Park. High towers reach the sky, the fragrant sandalwood scent wafts directly to the clouds; the multi-tiered foundation stretches across the earth, and the Great Hero Hall can accommodate a thousand Zen monks. The two wings are magnificent, all are palatial and resplendent; the corridors are clean, indeed a refined and wondrous cave of heaven. At that time, the sound of bells and drums proclaimed it to be the Buddha's land in the world; yet this stream of monks, like the dust of the earthly realm, continues to flow. Little did they know, as the years passed, that time would bring change. The reckless monk indulged in wine and mischief, destroying the clear precepts; the lazy practitioner was greedy for sleep and did not engage in cleaning. Gradually, it became desolate, cutting off disciples; leading to sorrow, rarely visited. Additionally, the birds and rodents gnawed at it, unable to withstand the winds and rains. The buildings collapsed, one after another, supporting structures failed; the walls crumbled, day after day, year after year, stirring up no one. The vermilion window frames, a dozen or so for brewing wine and tea; the supporting beams were taken to exchange for salt and rice. The wind blew, the golden Arhats vanished; the rain fell, the Amitabha turned to dust. Alas! The once brilliant gold and jade have become overgrown with wild brambles. Although there are successes and failures, ultimately, after extreme hardship comes great peace. Fortunately, there are sincere elder monks who cannot bear to see the decay of the Brahma King's palace. They make great vows, knocking on the door of the temple. I sincerely wish for compassion to arise, and for deep empathy to flourish. Regardless of the size of the wooden beams and pillars, they should be inscribed with the names of those who give; as for money and cloth, regardless of wealth, they should be offered and recorded in the ledger. Relying on the Buddha's divine power, may blessings and longevity be granted for hundreds and thousands of years; leaning on the clear mirror of the monastery, may fathers, sons, and grandsons all receive abundant blessings and high positions. May the blessings be endless, flourishing like the three locust trees and five laurels; may the entrance be grand, shining with golden wealth and resources. In all pursuits, may good fortune and wishes be fulfilled. As the document is delivered, may all greed be broken. Sincerely, I submit this.
After Ximen Qing finished reading the donation document, he respectfully placed it on the table and said to the elder, "To be honest with you, although I am not a big deal, I do have some wealth and serve as a military officer. However, I am getting older and still do not have a son, so I want to do some good deeds to accumulate merit. Last year, my sixth concubine had a child, and I am already very satisfied. This time, passing by here while sending a friend, I saw the temple in disrepair and decided to donate some money for the repairs. Since you are willing to accept it, how could I possibly refuse?" Holding a brush in his hand, he hesitated. Ying Boke said, "Brother, since you are so kind to pray for your nephew, why not decide for yourself? This is not a big deal." Ximen Qing smiled and said, "I'm not in a position to give more." Boke said again, "At least make a donation of one thousand taels." Ximen Qing smiled again and said, "I'm not in a position to give more." The elder spoke up, "Donor, I don't mean to intrude, but in Buddhism, we emphasize giving freely according to one's means, without forcing anyone. What matters is your sincerity. Besides, please also tell your relatives and friends." Ximen Qing said, "You are reasonable, elder. At least I should donate, so let's go with five hundred taels." He put down the brush, and the elder thanked him. Ximen Qing said again, "I have good relationships with eunuchs, officials, and county officials. Tomorrow, I will take the donation document to them and encourage them to donate too. Whether they donate three hundred, two hundred, or one hundred and fifty taels, we can make this happen." That day, Ximen Qing invited the elder to have a vegetarian meal and saw him off. It's a wealthy family's duty to do good deeds with compassion, bringing blessings and peace to parents' hearts.
Ximen Qing saw the elder off, returned to the hall, sat down with Ying Bojue, and said, "I was just about to send someone to invite you, and I want to thank you all for your hospitality. A few days ago, I went to Tokyo, and today I am hosting a banquet to express my gratitude, and I would like to invite Second Brother to join us. I didn't expect to run into this elder, which delayed me a bit." Bojue said, "This elder indeed seems very virtuous. When he speaks, even I feel like making a donation." Ximen Qing said, "When did you start being a benefactor? When did you write the donation document?" Ying Bojue laughed and said, "Brother, you don't know. The Buddhist scriptures say that the first kind of giving is giving from the heart, the second is giving through the Dharma, and only the third is giving material wealth. Isn't this considered giving from the heart?" Ximen Qing laughed and said, "Second Brother, you're probably just saying that." The two laughed heartily, and Ying Bojue said, "I'll wait here for the guests; you should go discuss things with Sister-in-law."
Ximen Qing bid farewell to Bojue, returned to the inner courtyard, only to find Pan Jinlian endlessly chattering, looking listless and tired, sneezing several times, walking to the room, and falling asleep on the ivory bed. Because the child was crying, Li Ping'er was sitting in the room with the wet nurse and maidservant. Meanwhile, only Wu Yueniang and Sun Xue'e were busy preparing dinner. Ximen Qing sat down in front of them and detailed the elder's fundraising efforts and his own writing of the donation document, as well as the joke with Ying Bojue. Everyone chatted happily for a while. Wu Yueniang was a serious person after all, calmly spoke a few words that pierced Ximen Qing's heart like a needle. A virtuous wife is a reminder at dawn; her kind words are often like healing advice.
Yue Niang said, "Brother, you are truly blessed to have a child, and you have developed a kind heart, establishing good relationships. Isn't this a blessing for our whole family? I'm just worried that good thoughts are scarce while evil thoughts are plentiful. Brother, in the future, try to engage in fewer improper activities and accumulate more good deeds; it will be good for the child!" Ximen Qing laughed and said, "You're getting jealous again. The universe has yin and yang, and men and women naturally need to cooperate. The affairs and casual liaisons in this life are all predestined from past lives; settling them in this life isn't just happenstance, is it? We hear that the Buddha in the West also paves the ground with gold, and the underworld requires money for arrangements. As long as we use our family wealth for good deeds, even if I were to abduct Chang'e, violate the Weaving Maiden, kidnap Xu Feiqiong, or steal the Queen Mother of the West's daughter, it wouldn't take away from my wealth." Yue Niang laughed and said, "A dog eats fresh dung, thinking it's fragrant; how can one change once blood has fallen into their teeth!"
At that moment, Wang Guzi and Xue Guzi walked in with a box, greeted Yue Niang, and bowed to Ximen Qing, saying, "Sir, you are home." Yue Niang gestured for them to sit. Ladies and gentlemen, it turns out that Xue Guzi didn't become a nun from a young age; she was married when she was young and sold steamed buns at the entrance of Guangcheng Temple. Business was poor, and she flirted with the monks and young monks in the temple, getting involved with several of them. She often brought them buns and vegetarian meals as offerings and even bought them flowers and fabric for binding feet with the money she had to spare. Her husband knew nothing about it! Later, her husband passed away, and due to her familiarity with the temple, she became a nun. She specifically networked with wealthy families and organized religious services. She also helped women looking to steal men make connections. Hearing that Ximen Qing's family was wealthy and had many concubines, she hoped to gain some advantages, so she came often. There is a folk song that says it well:
"Nuns are born bald, while monks are busy every night. Three bald heads look like master, senior brother, and junior brother; but where are the cymbals in bed?"
Xue Guzi opened the small box and said, "We don't have much to offer you, so we've brought a few fruits for the Buddha, just to make a fresh offering." Yue Niang said, "If you want to come, just come; why bother with all this effort?" Pan Jinlian was sleeping in the house. When she heard someone talking outside, it reminded her of earlier, so she came out to see what was going on. She saw Li Ping'er inside with the child and knew that Wang Guzi was also there. She wanted to talk to them about praying for the official's son. So, they all went to Yue Niang's room together. They greeted each other and then sat down. Ximen Qing, seeing that Li Ping'er had arrived, repeated the matter of donating to the Taoist priest to create an opportunity for himself and to pray for the official's son. Unexpectedly, this upset Pan Jinlian, who turned and walked away, muttering under her breath. Xue Guzi heard this, stood up with her palms together, and said, "Buddha! You're so kind and do good deeds; you’ll surely live a long life and have many descendants! However, I have one more thing to tell you—this good deed may not cost much, but it can bring immeasurable blessings. Oh, if you do this, it would surpass the merits of old Qutanshan's cultivation, the flowers scattered by Kasyapa, and the second patriarch who fed tigers by throwing himself off a cliff, all of which cannot compare to your virtue!" Ximen Qing smiled and said, "Auntie, please sit down and slowly talk about this virtue; I am listening." Xue Guzi said, "Our Buddha left behind a scroll of the 'Dharani Sutra,' specifically to encourage people to go to the Western Paradise. Because ordinary people do not believe, the Buddha taught this sutra, urging you to focus on chanting the Buddha's name and go to the West, never to reincarnate again. The Buddha said well that if someone recites this sutra or prints and copies it, and encourages one person to chant it among thousands or millions, they will gain immeasurable merit. Moreover, this sutra also contains the 'Sutra for Protecting Children'; any family that has children must sincerely recite this sutra for their children to be well taken care of, to avoid disasters, and to receive blessings. Now this sutra board is right here, but no one is printing and circulating it. If you just invest some money to print a few thousand copies, bind them well, and distribute them widely, that merit will be great!" Ximen Qing said, "This is not difficult; I just need to know how much paper, binding, and printing costs this scroll will require. If I have a specific number, I can make arrangements." Xue Guzi said, "Don't worry about the details; just pay nine taels of silver first, let the sutra workshop print several million copies, bind them well, and we can figure out the details later."
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Just as he was speaking, Chen Jingji wanted to talk to Ximen Qing. He walked to the bottom of the pergola and happened to meet Pan Jinlian sulking there alone. Chen Jingji saw her and was like a cat that’s just spotted a fish. Pan Jinlian instantly cast aside all her troubles. When they saw no one around, they held hands and embraced each other intimately, kissing each other. After a while, they were afraid that Ximen Qing would come out and see them, so they didn't even think about settling the score. They glanced around nervously, fearing they might be spotted. With no private spot to continue, they quickly slipped away.
After listening to what Xue Guzi had said, Ximen Qing also felt compassionate. He asked Dai An to bring a box, took out thirty taels of silver, and handed it to Xue Guzi and Wang Guzi, saying, "Go to the temple and help me print five thousand volumes of scriptures. After they are printed, I'll sort out the payment with you later." Just as he was speaking, Shu Tong hurriedly came to report, "The guests have all arrived." The guests were Wu Dajiu, Hua Dajiu, Xie Xidai, and Chang Zhijie. Ximen Qing quickly tidied up his clothes and went out to greet them, arranging for the guests to be seated. Soon, fish and fruit were brought out. Everyone drank and chatted, having a great time, playing games, beating drums, and singing songs, making it a lively scene. It was truly:
Autumn moons and spring flowers abound, sharing joyful moments together.
