The Buddha Speaks the Flower-Heap Pavilion Dharani Sutra

Thus have I heard: At one time, the World-Honored One was dwelling in the palace of the Dragon King Anavatapta, free from heat and distress, accompanied by a great assembly of four hundred and fifty bhikkhus. Moreover, there were a thousand great bodhisattvas, such as the Bodhisattva Lion’s Play, all fully endowed with dhāraṇī and perfect in the ten stages. Having received the empowerment, they dwelt in the position of succession to buddhahood, clad in the great armor of virtues, their minds unshakable and their renown widespread. Such great bodhisattvas had all gathered from other realms to assemble there.

At that time, the great bodhisattva Lion’s Play rose from his seat, bared his right shoulder, approached the World-Honored One, placed his right knee on the ground, and with palms joined respectfully addressed the Buddha, saying: “World-Honored One, how may one attain the merit-store of a Buddha? And for those who make offerings to the Tathāgata, how is it that their karmic results are immeasurable and boundless? I pray the Tathāgata, in your compassion, to explain this clearly.” Having spoken thus, he settled his mind and remained silent.

At that time, the Buddha said to the Bodhisattva Mahasattva Lion Play: "Excellent, excellent! Noble one! You now ask me, 'How does the Tathagata's treasury of merit come to be? And for those who make offerings to the Tathagata, how is the cause and effect immeasurable and boundless?' Listen carefully, and I shall now explain it to you."