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Exemplarious translation:
The establishment of the Baima Temple (Temple of the White Horse) by Emperor Ming (AD 58-75) of the Han marked the introduction of Buddhism into China. The temple was located on the south side of the Imperial Drive, three leagues (li) outside the Xiyang Gate.
The Emperor dreamt of the golden man sixteen Chinese feet tall, with the aureole of sun and moon radiating from his head and his neck. A "golden god", he was known as Buddha. The emperor dispatched envoys to the Western Regions in search of the god, and, as a result, acquired Buddhist scriptures and images. At the time, because the scriptures were carried into China on the backs of white horses, White Horse was adopted as the name of the temple.
After the emperor's death, a hall for mediation was built on his tomb. Thereafter stupas were sometimes constructed even on the graves of the common people.
The scripture cases housed in the temple have survived until this day; to them incense was often burned and good care was given. At times, the scripture cases gave off light that illuminated the room and hall. As a result, both laymen and Buddhist devotees reverently worshiped as if they were facing the real Buddha.
In front of the stupa were promegranate trees and grapevines that were different from those grown elsewere: they had luxuriant foliage and huge fruits. The pomegranates each weighed seven catties, and the grapes were bigger than dates. The taste of both was especially delicious, superior to all others in the capital. At harvest time, the emperor often came in person to pick them. Sometimes he would give some to ladies in the harem, who in turn would present them as gifts to their relatives. They were considered rare delicacies. The recipients often hesitated to eat them; instead, the fruits would be passed on and on to several households. In the capital there was a saying: Sweet pomegranates of the White Horse, each fruit is as valuable as an ox.
Translated by XXX.
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