肇論疏 3.21

3.21

Fourth is reiterating the intention of the treatise. "Expounding the treatise" refers to the respondent. "Detailing distinction" means exhaustively distinguishing with thorough subtlety. "Extinguishing that vast expanse": extinguishing; putting an end to those traces of words, vast, empty, and tranquil. "Refuting discourses beyond the realm": the Zhuangzi says, "Beyond the six directions, the sage acknowledges its presence but does not discuss it; within the six directions, the sage discusses but does not debate." The Spring and Autumn Classic says, "Regarding the intentions of former generations, the sage debates but does not delineate." Now he clarifies the subtleties beyond the six directions; therefore, he refutes Zhuangzi's discourse that one does not speak of what is beyond the realm. "Listed in articles as follows": listed in articles and documented in records as follows; "to the left" means following below. From "If it slightly accords with the imperial intent..." onward: it may accord with Sovereign Yao's intention, or it may accord with the Buddha's intention; hence he says "if it slightly accords." "If there be any error, I hope to receive your instruction": if there are mistakes or errors, he humbly hopes to receive guidance and instruction.