Rebirth of Old Woman Yao of the Tang Dynasty

Old Woman Yao, a native of Shangdang (modern-day Changzhi, Shanxi), and she was close friends with Old Woman Fan. One day, Old Woman Fan encouraged her to recite Amitabha Buddha’s name, so Yao joined her in the practice. From then on, she cast aside all household duties and devoted herself wholeheartedly to reciting Amitabha Buddha’s name.

Near the end of her life, she saw Amitabha Buddha descend from the sky with the two great Bodhisattvas Avalokitesvara and Mahasthamaprapta at his sides. She said to Amitabha Buddha, “Had I not met Old Woman Fan, how could I have seen you, Amitabha Buddha? So please wait a moment while I bid her farewell.” When Old Woman Fan arrived, the Buddha and the Bodhisattvas were still clearly visible. Shortly afterwards, Old Woman Yao attained rebirth standing up. (Pure Land Writings)

- Excerpt from ‘Records of the Pure Land Sages’