[2] Tanaka also writes that in his works, Zhi Dun explained the metaphysical meaning of the term li (noumenon).

Whosoever in this country of Chin, in this era of sensual pleasures, serves the Buddha and correctly observes the commandments, who recites the Scripture of Amitabha*, and who [furthermore] makes a vow to be [re]born in that country of [Sukhavati*] without ever abandoning his sincere intention, will at the end of his life, when his soul passes away, be miraculously transported thither.

I, Tun, born at this late time, [can only] hope to follow the remaining traces [of the doctrine], and I do not dare to expect that my mind is bound for that spiritual country.

Hence I had a painting made by an artisan, and erected this as a manifestation of the divine [power]; respectfully I look to the noble appearance [of this Buddha] in order to confront myself with Him whom [I adore like] Heaven.

When this was done, the cranes looked despondent, and Chih-tun too was depressed, and said: "Since they have wings that can reach the sky, how can they be content to be a pet of man?"