Chapter Title

ānandādivyākaraṇaparivartaḥ - The Chapter of Prophesies for Ānanda and so Forth (ādi)

Summary

This chapter, like chapter 6, is the conferral of prophecies of awakening on Ānanda, Rāhula, and two thousand other disciples after they make requests. According to Tao-sheng, these prophecies are given later because “these learners and adepts are advanced very little in ‘name and substance.’” (Kim, 479)

Predictions

Ānanda – After paying homage to the Buddhas, he will become a Buddha called Sāgaradharabuddhivikrīḍitarājābhijña (Wise King who Makes Sport of Bearing an Intellect like an Ocean). His land will be called Avanāmitavaijayantā (Bent Down Banner) and his aeon will be called Manojñaśabdābhigarjita (Pleasing Sound of a Roar). It will abide incalculably long. (29b-c)

While he arose the thought of bodhicitta at the same time as Śākyamuni, he wanted to hear more, whereas Śākyamuni always made more diligent efforts. Therefore, Śākyamuni attained awakening first, but Ānanda’s awakening will have a more incalculable fruition.

After hearing this, Ānanda recalled his bodhicitta and became established on the buddha path. (30a)

Rāhula – After paying homage to the Buddhas, and always being the eldest sons of all buddhas, he will become a Buddha called Saptaratnapadmavikrama (Valorous One of the Seven Jewelled Lotus). His land and the qualities of his dharmic dispensation will be identical to that of Ānanda. (30a-b)

The Two Thousand Disciples – The other disciples will, after paying homage to and preserving the Buddha and the Dharma, simultaneously attain buddhahood “in the worlds of the ten directions.” They will all be called Ratnaketurāja (King of Bright Jewels) and live for one aeon. (30b)