I said: “Could it really happen? Back to the hells once more?”
The Magistrate said: “We have grown accustomed to such occurrences. Many beings are delivered out of hell by Earth Store Bodhisattva and successfully reborn among humans, yet before long they return. Hence Earth Store Bodhisattva tirelessly rescues beings from this place. Since that spirit resolved with a great aspiration to uphold the true Dharma, Earth Store Bodhisattva has specially manifested a transformation body to guide him in the human world. Therefore we must never belittle a single idea of arousing the great Bodhi mind. Just this one idea of arousing the great Bodhi mind can attract Buddhas and Bodhisattvas to come to your rescue. All the same, though Buddhas and Bodhisattvas abide beside us living beings, we living beings remain unaware.”
“Ayù is truly grateful to you, Magistrate. Ayù has learned many profound truths today!”
I pressed my palms together to thank the Magistrate, and departed by white lotus.
29 / The Boundless Power of the Divine Pearl Mantra — Witnessing the Southern Three Sages Resolve Great Suffering in the Hells
Ever since I resolved to write The Inexorable Nether Laws, numerous obstacles have continuously arisen. When we resolve to undertake work that purifies people’s minds and exhorts others to practice goodness, we are certain to encounter all manner of trials. Yet our most sincere and pure mind aspiring for goodness fears no trials or hindrances whatsoever. Ayù believes that if we uphold a steadfast, sincere and pure resolve to observe the precepts, the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas will surely grant their empowerment, enabling us to break through every obstacle. All these hindrances seek to stop me from continuing to write The Inexorable Nether Laws.
When I first began writing, demonic obstacles abounded. I was already sleeping very little. Still, non-human beings constantly disturbed me severely while I slumbered, draining my vitality. Once I understood their aim, I ceased engaging with these beings in dreams, for such exchanges wasted energy and hindered my writing. Writing The Inexorable Nether Laws can only be accomplished when my state of mind is at its best.
Recently, I have endured some physical afflictions, so I must strengthen my inner mind power. Today, I shall transform all obstacles and physical suffering into motivation for spiritual cultivation. May all hindrances and sufferings of sentient beings across the world be borne solely by me, and all be transformed into Ayù’s drive for cultivation.
Homage to my compassionate master who teaches me with devotion! Homage to all patriarchs and eminent practitioners who cultivate the true Dharma and attain great accomplishment!
Homage to all Buddhas and Bodhisattvas of the ten directions! Homage to Great Earth Store Bodhisattva!