四分律刪繁補闕行事鈔 3.262

3.262

Now, the confused world is full of busy affairs, and the contemplation of wisdom is difficult to cultivate; the management of portions of merit was established to guide the foolish and deluded. Yet acts of donation are diverse and complex, and most involve setting up food offerings. Constantly in responding to invitations, there are violations of the teachings and rules; outwardly, this gives rise to ridicule and slander, and inwardly, it fosters delusion and pride; on the contrary, it attracts bitter destinies rather than accomplishing the guidance of a teacher. Therefore, gathering and summarizing the scriptural admonitions, I shall tentatively discuss them as follows. Within this, there are ten sections: 1. The procedure for receiving an invitation; 2. The procedure for proceeding to respond to an invitation; 3. The procedure upon arriving at the inviting house; 4. The procedure for taking seats and assigning places to guests; 5. Observing whether food is pure or defiled; 6. Passing the incense and chanting the aspiration; 7. The method for formal receipt of food; 8. Clearing away after eating is finished; 9. Dakṣiṇā and making offerings; 10. The procedure for leaving the inviting house.