釋門章服儀 1.6

1.6

A śramaṇa of Hanyin addressed a bodhisattva of Qinshan, saying: 'I have heard that the way of compassionate salvation has been looked up to as a model throughout antiquity, and the methods of vast giving have always been revered. Is it not true that when benevolence and nurturing effect transformation, their covering and supporting surpass Heaven and Earth; and when gathering and guiding initiate deeds, their beneficent grace exceeds the three great [elements]? Surely one should broaden the level path, manifesting nature and life to the four kinds of beings, and unburden the vital spirits, extending compassion throughout the nine realms of existence. Lately I have seen various śramaṇas whose deportment and bearing are lofty and grand, and whose speech and conduct are apart from the ordinary, deeply incurring the censure of Jīvaka and heavily inviting the reproach of the Marquis of Yin. Wrapped in silken garments, they cannot indulge their minds without flowered brocades; resting upon soft cushions, they cannot settle their thoughts without light, soft fabrics. Regarding clothing and food with such shamelessness, they have already lost virtue before the Confucian school; the holy seed being abruptly destroyed, they have indeed forfeited the Way before the mysterious halls. In this manner, while specialized lineages give tranquil instructions, they vainly proclaim the decorum of admonitions; those who follow the path are few, and the restrictions of reproof are set up in vain. Might it not be that the bond of the true Dharma has collapsed, ending after sixteen hundred years? I venture to present my doubts, requesting that you untangle and explain them.'