PREFACE

(singke) #1

198


When Avalokitesvara finished speaking the mantra, the
earth shook six ways, the heaven rained jeweled flowers that fell
and scattered in abundance on the ground. All the Buddhas of the
ten directions were delighted while the hairs of the heavenly
Demons and the infidels stood on end for fear.


Everyone in the assembly got certified for their cultivation.
Some achieve the rank of Srotapanni, (first rank of sagehood in
the Small Vehicle, meaning One Who Enters the Flow) some to
the rank of Sakrdagami (2nd rank,), or the rank of Anagamin (3rd
rank), some to the rank of Arhat (4th rank). Others attain the first
ground, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th and even up to the 10th ground of a
Bodhisattva. Many people develop the Bodhi mind.


At this time, Brahma stood up from his seat, adjusted his
robe, put his palms together and respectfully spoke to
Avalokitesvara: “How nice O great man! Since a very long time,
I have come to numerous Dharma assemblies. I have heard the
essences of doctrines and many Dharanis on many occasions, but
I have not heard this excellent Great Compassion Dharani before.
Could you please tell me about the form and the appearance of
the Dharani? We all want to hear it.”


Avalokitesvara told Brahma: “You have asked this for the
benefit of all beings. If you want to hear it, I will briefly explain
to all of you.”


“O Brahma! The appearance of this Dharani manifests
through great compassion, impartiality, indifferentiation, purity,
emptiness, respect, humility, serenity, superior understanding,
order and detachment. All those aspects of the heart are the
appearance of this Dharani. Use them in your practice.” Brahma
replied: “Today, many people and I are honored to understand the
form of this Dharani. From now on, we will diligently practice
it.”

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