釋門歸敬儀 1.46

1.46

Yet because the true form has already departed, one sees only the bequeathed traces, like entering an ancestral temple: naturally sorrowful and solemn, lifting one's eyes one is deeply moved, as though [the spirits] were present without doubt. Today we are also like this: the Compassionate Honoured One has long since departed, leaving only shadow-images to guide the banner of our pride; it is necessary to bend low and touch their feet, carrying out salutation and veneration as if facing the true form expounding the Dharma for us. If today we neither see nor hear it, our minds stem from lack of faith; how do we know this? For as far as the mind's intent aims, the three realms are brought into being; how could this single hall be stubborn, foolish, and unmoved? The *Great Treatise* says: 'All Buddhas constantly emit light and preach the Dharma; because of living beings' beginningless sins, they are face-to-face yet do not see.' If one image is like this, other images follow the same rule. Trees, stones, mountains, and forests, erected according to their forms, guide my mind's path, not departing from the noble deportment.