Commentary on the Pūrvaśāntika Sutra (235)

The Past Life of Shakyamuni Buddha

Original Text:

At that time, King Boundless Renown, having fallen from heaven, could not endure the smell of human food upon first encountering it, just as ghee poured onto hot sand. King Creator of Affection, seeing his emaciated condition and realizing he would not survive long, asked, “What words of wisdom do you have? How should I proclaim your deeds in the future?” King Boundless Renown replied, “Since ancient times, I have enjoyed wealth, honor, and autonomy. I ruled the Four Continents, and all my needs were fulfilled as I wished. I ascended to the Trayastrimsa Heaven, where Sakra Devanam Indra shared his throne with me. Yet, due to insatiable greed, I fell from heaven. All these events should be proclaimed exactly as they occurred.” After speaking these words, he passed away.

The Buddha said, “Great King, that King Boundless Renown of the past was none other than myself. Therefore, know this: all sensory faculties are illusory, and all perceived realms are dream-like. Focus your mind with unwavering attention and correct contemplation, free from doubt.”

Explanation:

At that time, King Boundless Renown had just fallen from heaven. Upon first encountering the smell of human food, he could not endure it, like ghee flowing into scorching sand. Seeing King Boundless Renown’s weakened body, the king knew he would not live much longer and asked him, “What final words do you have? How should I proclaim your deeds in the future?” King Boundless Renown said, “Since ancient times, I have enjoyed wealth, honor, and autonomy. I ruled the Four Continents, and all my needs were fulfilled as I wished. After ascending to the Trayastrimsa Heaven, Sakra Devanam Indra shared half his throne with me. But because of my insatiable greed, I fell from heaven. You should proclaim these events exactly as they happened.” After saying this, King Boundless Renown passed away.

Finally, Shakyamuni Buddha said, “Great King, that King Boundless Renown, the Wheel-Turning Monarch, was none other than my past life as Shakyamuni Buddha. Therefore, you should understand that all sensory faculties are illusory, and all perceived realms are dream-like. Focus your mind single-pointedly, contemplate with correct mindfulness, and give rise to no doubt.”