Kōkū, a priest of Konshōji Temple, was from Ōmi Province. During many years of ascetic practices, he recited the Hokekyō in a pure and beautiful voice with ringing bell-like tones.

Heikō of Hyōbu, a close relative of Masakado of Taira, was a wild warrior who had committed evil deeds. Hyōbu became acquainted with Priest Kōkū, trusted him, and had him stay in his house for several years. His retainers started a rumor that his wife had a relationship with Kōkū. Hearing the rumor, Hyōbu developed a resentment against Kōkū, took him into a deep mountain, bound him to a large tree, and had his retainer release an arrow at him. But the arrow broke before reaching Kōkū’s abdomen.

Kōkū saw that his suffering was due to karmic causes. Even though innocent, he only concentrated on the recitation of the Hokekyō in his high and noble voice.

Several arrows were vainly released, since all broke before striking Kōkū. Now Hyōbu himself tried to shoot, but his arrows became broken just like the others. Thirty-nine arrows were released futilely. In the end, the greatly impressed Hyōbu released Kōkū, begged his pardon, and said, “I have made a great mistake by trying to harm the holy man. Hereafter, I will never harm him.” Hyōbu tearfully repented for his sins and took Kōkū home.

Hyōbu dreamed at night of a golden-hued Bodhisattva Fugen mounted on a white elephant. The shafts of many arrows projected from the middle of Fugen’s body. In his dream, Hyōbu questioned Fugen about the arrows. Fugen replied, “On the previous day, you tried to kill the Hokekyō reciter, Kōkū, in spite of his innocence. I have received all the arrows in his place!”

The awakened Hyōbu was appalled, tearfully repented of his sin in front of Kōkū, retired to his room, and told everything to his retainers.

Three days later, being deeply disappointed by secular life, Kōkū took his Buddhist images and left Hyōbu’s house about midnight.

Hyōbu dreamed again of Fugen who said, “You have venerated me during past years. Due to your merits, you will be delivered in due course. Yet, you once wanted to harm me, in spite of my innocence. You should quickly refrain from evil deeds and progress to goodness. This is what the Buddhas have been preaching and this is why I have left your place forever and am moving to a different location.”

After awakening, the surprised Hyōbu hurried to Kōkū’s room, only to find that Kōkū had already gone. Hyōbu greatly lamented and grieved. (Page 93-94)

Miraculous Tales of the Lotus Sutra from Ancient Japan