首楞嚴義疏注經 1.5

1.5

Weijing, Tripiṭaka Translator of Sūtras, Grand Master of Palace Leisure, Probationary Chamberlain for Ceremonials, Master Guangfan, bestowed with the Purple Robe, respectfully presents this letter to His Excellency the Censor-in-Chief: Recently, I have been honored to be specially favored with your newly composed 'Preface to the Commentary on the Śūraṅgama Sūtra.' A great scholar and virtuous gentleman favorably praises the precious vehicle, while an unlearned member of the monastics unworthily catches a glimpse of the Dharma phrases; body and mind are filled with joy, and the all-inclusive wisdom brightens further. Receiving it reverently with utmost reliance, my gladness is beyond measure. I humbly consider that the Great Buddha-Crest Śūraṅgama Sūtra of the Definitive Meaning of the Tathāgata's Secret Cause, Cultivation, and Realization, and the Bodhisattvas' Ten Thousand Practices is the portal of bodhisattva practice and the seal of the mind of all buddhas. When unfolding the conditioned, it is the wondrous functioning countless as dust and sands; when returning to the signless, it is the true source of the dharmadhātu. Neither existent nor empty, it transcends names and characteristics beyond words and symbols; manifesting the cause and revealing the fruit, it marks stages within spiritual transformation. The object does not obstruct the mind, and delusion does not obstruct wisdom; the nature of the seven great elements is great without relying on anything, and the dharma of the eight returns returns without having any origin. Therefore, one comprehends the mind of tathatā, puts an end to the root of falsehood, arouses expedient wisdom, and proclaims the secret words. Through this, the ten thousand dharmas are fully integrated, and all buddhas attain sovereignty; one enters the two truths of non-duality and awakens to the three emptinesses that are not empty. How grand is the true tradition, inconceivable indeed! Here was an eminent scholar who composed a commentary, brilliantly resolving the secret teachings and concisely discoursing on the Buddha's intent. Respectfully, Your Excellency has entered the knowledge and vision of the Buddha and understood the causes and conditions of phenomena; studying Buddhism and practicing cultivation, you have dispelled the sickness of existence and emptiness; proclaiming the nature and characteristics of dharmas, you have harmoniously clarified the beginnings of arising and ceasing, serving as a fortress for protecting the Dharma and acting as an unasked friend. You have composed this lofty preface, broadly propagating the teaching vehicle, establishing a lasting guide for eternal generations and manifesting a torch in the long darkness. Having long received your courteous regard in the Way, I have unworthily enjoyed this extraordinary composition; harboring deep personal gratitude, my elation is beyond measure. Words cannot fully express it. Weijing bows his head.