Xuanzang looked at the fearful crowd without showing the slightest fear himself.
"Our Buddhist Sect values following fate, and the cultivation of Buddhist teachings should also follow fate. Although the Buddhist Sect currently mainly cultivates Hinayana Buddhism, anyone who prefers Mahayana Buddhism may still cultivate it. You just said that the cultivation of Mahayana Buddhism was forbidden, but I would like to ask everyone: when had the Buddha ever forbidden the cultivation of Mahayana Buddhism?" Xuanzang asked, looking at the crowd.
Tathagata Buddha had indeed never forbidden the cultivation of Mahayana Buddhism. However, everyone knew that Tathagata Buddha hoped that those of the Buddhist Sect would cultivate Hinayana Buddhism, which was why everyone practiced that way.
After all, cultivating Mahayana Buddhism would plainly mean going against Tathagata Buddha. No one wanted to do that.
"Enough. Let us not discuss Mahayana Buddhism and Hinayana Buddhism now. What we need to discuss is protecting Chang'an. There are several million commoners in Chang'an, and once those demons arrive, the impact will certainly be enormous. I hope that every disciple of Gold Mountain Temple can step forward and organize everyone to resist the demons!" Xuanzang continued.
"Do not forget that the Tang Dynasty has shown our Buddhist Sect immense kindness. We are able to cultivate Buddhism here in peace, without worrying about food, clothing, shelter, or travel, and enjoy a peaceful life because of the Tang Dynasty. New Chang'an is about to face a great calamity. If we shut our doors, remain uninvolved, and stand idly by, do you think you could live with your conscience? Could you face the Buddha? If the Buddha knew you acted this way, he would surely be angered by you!"
When Xuanzang finished the latter half of his speech, the Buddhist disciples present were all shaken to the