樂邦文類 4.73

4.73

Yi states: Recently, I have learned that the Great Master has made a covenant to form an association of ten monks, committing to a three-year repentance, and intending to step into the samādhi of fiery light, having resolved to attain rebirth in the Pure Land. The view of self is instantly emptied, and the power of your vows grows ever stronger, to ascend to the highest grade of the lotus flower and hear the supreme sound of the Dharma trees. This matter is not in vain, but is what the former buddhas verified. However, in my worldly mind I earnestly cherish a prayerful wish, precisely because the Great Master has penetrated the guidance of the threefold contemplation and is revered by the four assemblies, continuing the life of wisdom of Mount Tiantai and opening the gate of deliverance of Yuejue. The ten good deeds guide people to vie in abiding in pure karma; the single voice upholds the teaching, broadly expounding the golden words. Your compassionate shade is universally impartial, and the wind of your Way is truly harmonious. The realm of Ultimate Bliss is indeed an expedient manifestation of the King of Awakening, while this body of great trouble is not what a wise person delights in. Yet if there is rejoicing and revulsion, love and hate arise; once the mind of grasping and rejecting sprouts, the view of subject and object is born. I trust that you have thoroughly awakened and long investigated the true and eternal, and merely condescend to initial capacities hoping to stimulate pure practice. I humbly hope that, in accord with the imperial edict, you will further broaden the field of merit, prolong the period of your life in this world, and widely expand the flourishing of your teaching conditions. I also hope that when the period of repentance is concluded, you will slightly redirect your Dharma steps to grant me your company, so that I may emulate Cunda in reverently offering the final meal, and wish, like Ānanda, to instantly dispel the mind of detachment from the dusts of the world. Fortunately take pity on my ignorance, and do not hasten toward extinction. I earnestly hope you will deign to listen, and I gaze upward awaiting your reply. Respectfully submitted.