Supporter Monk Lesser Yaoguais
Description
In the past, the craftsmen building the grand hall at the New West frequently encountered strange occurrences, leading many to quit. Curious, one craftsman sought out the abbot, reputed to be a high monk, for answers.
The abbot, without hesitation, led him to the Great Pagoda, where he revealed the Lantern Warden. The craftsmen were terrified, having heard tales of yaoguais in their youth but never having seen one. At that moment, a wondrous sound echoed through the Great Pagoda, and the Lantern Warden emitted a blinding light, causing the craftsmen to lose their sight. They cried out in despair.
The abbot smiled and said, “To see the truth, one must be willing to sacrifice. You might as well stay in this temple and practice the path to ultimate bliss with me. Perhaps you will have the chance to transcend the mortal realm and reach the Buddha’s kingdom.”
Realizing they were now blind and unable to find work, the craftsmen decided to abandon the secular world and join the temple. They asked the abbot how they should practice, and he replied, “Whatever you are skilled at, practice that.”
The craftsmen, known for their great strength, decided to pursue enlightenment through martial arts. Despite their blindness, they trained under the temple’s Overseeing Monks. They tied large stones to iron chains and attached them to their wrists, lifting them daily. This also conveniently prepared the stones needed for the temple’s construction. The abbot was pleased and appointed them as
Supporter Monks, saving a considerable amount of labor costs.
Poetry
Strength with no place to show,
Lifting stones, a futile throw.
Eyes bright yet lost in haze,
Empty gaze, in self’s maze.
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