The historical origin of the double-oblique system can be easily reconstructed: the transitive past with its characteristic double-oblique form as shown in (53) was originally ergative, with an oblique A and an absolutive O.

After liberation the informal groups survived especially in Kiangsu, Chekiang, and Fukien, where the number of lay devotees had been largest. About most of them we know only their names, which indicate that their purpose was usually Pure Land practice. About one we know somewhat more. This was the Mu-kuang Lotus Society in Nantung, Kiangsu. Its seventy-six members got together to recite buddha's name once a month; and on other occasions to celebrate Pure Land festivals.

UUho when he ſhal embrace you in his arms UUil tell how many thouſand men he ſlew. And when you looke for amorous diſcourſe, Will rattle foorth his facts of war and blood: […]

It describes the Agapetae as virgins who consecrated themselves to God with a vow of chastity and associated with laymen who like themselves had taken a vow of chastity.