The Spirit Who Loved Vinegar

This is a record of an interview with the spirit known as the Vinegar Bodhisattva, who sought deliverance at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia. She now resides in the Western Dharma-Nature Land. This account reflects upon her life in a past era. Recorded by the disciple Venerable HaiZe on October 6, 2017.

Venerable HaiZe speaks:

"I invite the Vinegar Bodhisattva from the kitchen of the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre to accept this interview."

Vinegar Bodhisattva speaks:

"I am here! I am here!" (She speaks in a delicate, coquettish voice.)

"You all have such good hearts; I love people like you the most. I am a person from ancient times, and my name was Shi Niang."

A Life Defined by Vinegar

"It was not that long ago, but I have always loved dressing myself like a woman from the ancient days. Vinegar has existed since antiquity. It can make the skin soft and supple; it can be used for washing, and it can be consumed. It is wonderful for the body, and I simply adore eating vinegar. Think about it—who wouldn't want to maintain their beauty and health with such a simple, natural gift?"

"My husband knew that I was a 'big vinegar barrel'—a woman with a very jealous nature—so he never dared to step out of line. He was completely under my thumb, obedient and submissive. When I passed away, I thought about the things I loved most in my life. Aside from my husband, it was eating vinegar and drinking vinegar. It was my passion, and it allowed me to pass away feeling beautiful and content. It was my signature, my joy, and my comfort."

Joy in the Kitchen

"I have been watching you all here at the Centre. I know that you are very skilled at using vinegar for seasoning, and you use quite a large amount of it in your cooking. It brings me such delight to see it! Everyone is so happy, including the bottles in the storage room. Even the unopened bottles of vinegar are smiling from ear to ear because they know they will be put to good use. Thank you all so much for your kindness and for the wonderful atmosphere you have created here."

"Namo Amituofo."