Rebirth of Xu Xiaoke of the Sui Dynasty

Xu Xiaoke was known for his profound filial piety. Whenever the emperor invited him to a banquet, he would refrain from eating anything there and instead bring the food home to provide for his mother. He committed himself to a vegetarian diet, upheld the Bodhisattva precepts, and devoted himself to teaching, reciting, and reading the Lotus Sutra day and night. While serving as the Minister of State, his government office was often plagued by ghosts. During twilight hours, strange noises and lights would appear for no reason, or people would see figures in official attire emerging from the well. Many of the people residing there died. However, after Xu Xiaoke moved into the office and stayed for two years, these disturbances ceased, which many attributed to his genuine integrity and virtuous character.

In the 10th year of the Kaihuang era of Emperor Wen of Sui (590 CE), when an epidemic broke out in Chang’an, Emperor Wen ordered Xu Xiaoke to give lectures on the Diamond Sutra. He attained rebirth in the 19th year of Kaihuang (599 CE). At the time of his passing, he sat upright, peacefully reciting Amitabha Buddha's name, and an unusual fragrance filled the room, surprising his neighbours." (Chen Shu's Biography of Filial Piety and Friendship）

- Excerpt from ‘Records of the Pure Land Sages’