芥子

(sa) sarṣapa, 薩利刹跛; 舍利沙婆 Mustard seed.

(1) A measure of length, 10,816,000th part of a (sa) yojana, v. 由旬.

(2) A weight, the 32nd part of a 賴提 or 草子 (sa) raktikā, 2 3/16 grains.

(3) A trifle.

(4) On account of its hardness and bitter taste it is used as a symbol for overcoming illusions and demons by the esoteric sects.

(5) The appearance of a buddha is as rare as the hitting of a needle's point with a mustard seed thrown from afar.