Japanese Buddhist Proverbs
177
36.—Jigoku Gokuraku wa kokoro ni ari.
Hell and Heaven are in the hearts of men.[1]
37.—Jigoku mo sumika.
Even Hell itself is a dwelling-place.[2]
38.—Jigoku ni mo shiru hito.
Even in hell old acquaintances are welcome.
39.—Kagé no katachi ni shitagau gotoshi.
Even as the shadow follows the shape.[3]
40.—Kané wa Amida yori hikaru.
Money shines even more brightly than Amida.[4]
- ↑ A proverb in perfect accord with the higher Buddhism.
- ↑ Meaning that even those obliged to live in hell must learn to accommodate themselves to the situation. One should always try to make the best of circumstances. A proverb of kindred signification is, Sumeba, Miyako: “Wheresover one’s home is, that is the Capital [or, imperial City].”
- ↑ Referring to the doctrine of cause-and-effect. Compare with verse 2 of the Dhammapada.
- ↑ Amitâbha, the Buddha of Immeasurable Light. His image in the temples is usually gilded from head to foot.—There are many other ironical proverbs about the power of wealth,—such as Jigoku no sata mo kané shidai: “Even the Judgments of Hell may be influenced by money.”
