佛說盂蘭盆經疏 1.2

1.2

Beginning in primordial chaos and filling heaven and earth, communicating between humans and spirits, and threading through both the noble and the lowly, revered by both Confucianism and Buddhism—it is nothing other than filial piety. Responding to the earnest sincerity of a filial child, rescuing the suffering and distress of the two parents, and repaying the grace and virtue of vast heaven—it is nothing other than the teaching of the Ullambana. Because of my own transgressions, I, Zongmi, lost my parents in my early years; I always tread upon the sorrow of frost and snow, and forever harbor the grief of the wind among the trees. I reflected that sweeping the graves for the rest of my life and offering seasonal sacrifices to the end of my days, though expressing filial thoughts, would not benefit their souls in the realm of spirits. Thereupon I searched through the teachings of the sages and worthies, and reverently sought a method for the posthumous transfer of merit. I obtained this dharma gate, which is truly a marvelous practice. Every year on the day of the saṅgha's pravāraṇā, making the four requisites of offering to the Three Honored Ones, I have observed and revered it following this practice for many years, while also lecturing upon its teachings. Because this had not been heard of [here], now, having returned to my home village, I established it on that day. The monastic and lay elders, full of sorrow and joy, complied with and practiced it; with one voice they requested that I compose a new commentary. My heart being fixed upon the pines and cypresses [of my parents' graves], how could I be negligent toward my home village? Complying with their sentiments, I elucidate the essential path.