觀心論 1.3

1.3

Answer: As you have asked, the Buddhist scriptures are immeasurable and the treatises are also very numerous—this is universally known. However, because those who propagate the Dharma wish to benefit beings, they mostly offer milk diluted with water, causing those who hear and receive it to lose the taste of the true path. The fourfold assembly turns increasingly shallow and fragmented, causing those with faith to gradually cease and speak faintly of it. One fears that the profound and vast great Dharma will not long remain, the eyes of sentient beings will be extinguished, and they will lose the benefit of the true Dharma. Therefore, in seclusion, sorrow arises; tormented and distressed, it is difficult to bear. Without considering myself ordinary, shallow, of little learning, and narrow experience, wishing to assist like the parrot exerting the power of its wings, I presume upon the power of the Three Jewels, desiring to compose this treatise. If the questioner wishes to know the author's intent, there are broadly two aspects: first, to reproach myself on behalf of my disciples; second, if the external fourfold assembly can perhaps believe and receive it, it may also be transmitted to them. In brief, I answer in verse: