維摩經略疏 1.2

1.2

The text of this present commentary was produced by Great Master Tiāntái at the request of Emperor Yang of the Sui, who used it as an essential guide; the imperial decree is recorded in full in the Guoqing bailu. [The Master] accordingly directed his attendants to transcribe it as he proceeded and submit it to the emperor. However, beginning with the latter part of the "Chapter on the Buddha Way," Zhāng'ān privately recorded and continued the composition to complete the initial text. Since the writing was carried out by the attendants, it inevitably contained excessive elaboration and breadth. Whenever monastics and laypeople of profound insight encountered it, they all admired and yearned for it, but would remark: "The only defect is that its text is overly voluminous." Therefore, I have taken it upon myself to excerpt and edit that record, ensuring that wherever meaning was conveyed it was preserved, and wherever words were redundant they were pruned, so that the old structure remains intact without altering the original work of the former master. Yet, reflecting upon my own ignorance and shortcomings, and fearing I might stray from his foundational standards, I once burned incense in the tomb hall to seek a sign, praying: "If I should corrupt the Great Way in the slightest, I pray you will manifest an impediment." Before twenty days had passed, the [explication of the] Buddha Way was completed; having thus avoided unseen rebuke, how could this not be unseen protection! If this should contribute to his essential teachings, it will illuminate future generations. I hope all discerning people will forgive my presumption.