CHORUS (speaking for KOMACHI).
“Nothing is real.
Between Buddha and Man
Is no distinction, but a seeming of difference planned
For the welfare of the humble, the ill-instructed,
Whom he has vowed to save.
Sin itself may be the ladder of salvation.”
So she spoke, eagerly; and the priests,
“A saint, a saint is this decrepit, outcast soul.”
And bending their heads to the ground,
Three times did homage before her.
KOMACHI.
I now emboldened
Recite a riddle, a jesting song.
“Were I in Heaven
The Stūpa were an ill seat;
But here, in the world without,
What harm is done?”[102]
CHORUS.
The priests would have rebuked her;
But they have found their match.
PRIEST.
Who are you? Pray tell us the name you had, and we will pray for you when you are dead.
KOMACHI.
Shame covers me when I speak my name; but if you will pray for me, I will try to tell you. This is my name; write it down in your prayer-list: I am the ruins of Komachi, daughter of Ono no Yoshizane, Governor of the land of Dewa.