釋門歸敬儀 2.31

2.31

The above has generally clarified the forms of bowing, urging the examination of mind and conduct; the textual explanation is complete, and the expedient means are established. Once the ritual etiquette is prepared and one is led before the image: the body does not rise rashly, and upon rising must add reverence; the eyes do not gaze rashly, and looking must be to behold the countenance; the mouth does not speak rashly, and words must praise virtue. As shown above, this is very easy to understand. When one approaches the battlefield, one often bears heavy blame; therefore, the treatise says: "Before the Buddha, the World-Honoured One, there are no aberrant words." Can one not reflect on this? Can one not reflect on this! This section aims at those of initial aspiration who have never before borne this in mind and have had no way to understand it clearly. Do not blame its detailed elaboration, for the matter and its meaning require it. The proverb says: "Teach a child from infancy; teach a bride upon her arrival." Though the words are shallow and mundane, the metaphor is profound and far-reaching. Therefore, when Ānanda had white hair, Kāśyapa still called him a youth; this did not mean that accumulation of years made one old—because he had not been well trained, he was not considered old. The principle is certainly subtle and profound; how will you observe and practice it?