This article makes the following three points through an analysis of the figure of Hakuin Ekaku 白隠慧鶴 (1686–1769) and the oracle of bodhicitta.
(1) Hakuin created the oracle of bodhicitta by combining several descriptions from the Shasekishū 沙石集 (Collection of Sand and Pebbles) with his own memories and understanding to fill in the details.
(2) This oracle of bodhicitta allowed Hakuin to attain complete awakening and to realize the importance of saving people by expounding the dharma.
(3) Yet because Hakuin’s disciples did not record this incident in the chronicle of Hakuin’s life which they compiled, this oracle of bodhicitta has not received much attention.
