Yaksha Patroller Lesser Yaoguais
Description
The yakshas who migrated from the west had a great fondness for meat. Fortunately, Little Thunderclap Temple did not have a strict vegetarian rule, which delighted the yakshas who sought refuge there.
All the yakshas in the mountains aspired to become Patrollers, not only because of the uniquely designed large sword that looked particularly imposing and could fly back to its owner with great precision, but also because Patrollers guarded the outer mountains and always had access to fresh meat.
One day, the yakshas were gathered together, drinking blood and eating meat, revelling in their merriment. Their raucous behavior soon became known throughout the temple. The Overseeing Monks, who adhered to ascetic practices and only ate vegetarian food, were displeased. They carried a large pot to the yakshas. When the yakshas peered into the pot, they saw only radishes and greens, and their enthusiasm waned.
One yaksha scolded, “Do you think eating this will help you gain a deeper understanding of the Dharma? How shallow.” Another added, “Our master said that to achieve ultimate bliss, one should not restrain desires.” Hearing this, the supervising monk replied, “My desire is to promote virtue. If I don’t persuade you, I can’t achieve ultimate bliss either.” Thus, both sides argued heatedly, without reaching a conclusion.
Alas, eating what one likes and saying what one wants are not inherently wrong. However, one’s happiness should not disturb others, and people should not derive pleasure from bothering others. In this case, both sides were at fault.
Poetry
In the mountains, a fiend blocks the way,
With a hideous face and a crooked blade in sway.
The wind howls, souls seem to fade,
For your life, swiftly evade.
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