國清百錄 3.41

3.41

Memorial of thanks from the Śramaṇa Zhiyue and the entire community of Mount Tiantai: Sima Wang Hong arrived, and the monastic envoys Guanding and Puming returned, reverently bearing your instructions of the twenty-ninth day of the first month, which deigned to offer condolences and deliver your verbal instruction. You inquired with thoughtful solicitude. Reverently facing the doors of the niche, we burned incense and knelt to read [your letter]. Its words and sentiments were poignant and deeply grieved, piercing our souls and hearts. We shall bear your lingering charge whether in death or in life. When our master was in the world, he frequently instructed us, saying: 'I now obtain the temple foundation to construct it for the Prince. It is not something you junior monks can manage. There will be another person of great strength and authority who shall later bring it to completion; my only regret is that I will not see the monastery completed.' At that time, we could not fathom the reason, but now that we have received your renovation and construction, we at last awaken to his prior prediction; its silent correspondence is inconceivable. The Dharma treasure of the scriptural canon is a ferry to transcend the world, the teacher of all Buddhas, and a guide for sentient beings. It shall forever safeguard Mount Folong, relied upon, upheld, and recited. The bells, banners, incense, and other offerings you bestowed have been installed for worship; the Dharma drum awakens and benefits humans and spirits. The Dharma gathering of one thousand monks has brought its merit to full perfection. We humbly imagine his hidden spirit, in its compassion, beholds this from afar. Reverently, on the day of the feast, we unfolded and read your vow text; the Dharma assembly trembled in heart, seeking to enter the ocean of your vows. Having been granted provisions for the feast and graciously bestowed agricultural lands, the foundation and estate are inexhaustible, and this gift of sustenance is boundless. As dependent beings, we cause much trouble, and it is difficult to repay your towering grace and the intentions of your instructions. You specifically ordered that the current resident monks must not disperse. We humbly reflect that your grand protection is of grave importance and the monastery is soon to be completed; fellow students and disciples are just now relying upon it. With the niche chamber standing solemnly, what heart could bear to depart? Moreover, having received your strict instructions, we are all the more fearful in our sincere devotion, and shall reverently exert ourselves, redoubling our mental and physical efforts. But having lost our shade and shelter, the community has forever parted from his compassionate vows; yet recalling and rejoicing in our past affinities, we again receive your shielding protection. Joy and sorrow intermingling, we weep as we approach this memorial. Reverently submitted. Fifteenth day of the second month of the eighteenth year of Kaihuang.