摩訶止觀 2.40

2.40

The ritual practices of the various sūtras that are not subsumed under the previous three [types of samādhi] belong to [the samādhi of] following one's own mind. Taking the Qing Guanyin [jing] to illustrate its features: adorn a bodhimaṇḍa in a quiet place with banners, canopies, incense, and lamps; invite an image of Amitābha and images of the two bodhisattvas Avalokiteśvara and Mahāsthāmaprāpta, placing them in the west; set out willow branches and pure water. If one relieves oneself, one must smear oneself with perfume, bathe until pure, and put on fresh, clean clothes. Beginning on a fast day, one should face directly west, throw the five limbs to the ground, and pay homage to the Three Jewels, the seven Buddhas, Śākyamuni, Amitābha, the three dhāraṇīs, the two bodhisattvas, and the holy assembly. Having paid homage, kneel on the right knee, burn incense and scatter flowers, with the utmost sincerity forming the visualizations according to the regular method. Having made offerings, straighten the body and make the mind upright, sit cross-legged, fix mindfulness, and count the breaths, taking ten breaths as one mindfulness. When ten mindfulnesses are accomplished, rise and burn incense. For the sake of sentient beings, thrice invite the Three Jewels mentioned above. Having finished the invitation, recite the names of the Three Jewels three times, additionally reciting the name of Avalokiteśvara. Clasp the ten fingers, chant the four-line gāthā to completion, and then chant the three sections of dhāraṇī, either once or seven times, depending on whether the time is early or late. Having finished chanting the dhāraṇī, spread out one's confession, recalling one's offenses. Having revealed them and washed oneself clean, pay homage to those invited above. Having paid homage, one person mounts the high seat and either recites or chants this sūtra text, while the others listen attentively. Such is the method before noon and in the early night; at other times, follow the standard ritual. If one feels it is too brief, one may consult the sūtra to supplement it (and so forth).