樂邦遺稿 1.55

1.55

Although students see the deeds of Master Yuan, few are able to comprehend them fully. That the world cannot clearly see the virtue of this former worthy is also a failing of later students. Reading the *Gaoseng zhuan*, the *Lianshe ji*, and the old and new records of Jiujiang, I cherish six matters regarding Master Yuan, deeming them suitable for encouragement. Thereupon I have cited and explained them, displaying them in his portrait hall to show to those who come after. As Lu Xiujing was a scholar of an heterodox teaching, yet [Master Yuan] saw him off past Tiger Creek, this was not discarding his words on account of the man. As Tao Yuanming was addicted to wine, yet [Master Yuan] associated with him, this was disregarding minor details to adopt his broad-mindedness. When the eminent monk [Buddha]bhadra was expelled for displaying wonders, [Master Yuan] invited and praised him, which was valuing the discerning while correcting jealousy toward the worthy. Because Xie Lingyun had a scattered mind, [Master Yuan] would not admit him, and in the end [Xie] indeed perished by execution; this was recognizing his capacity and being cautious about his end. When Lu Xun was about to rebel, [Master Yuan] held his hand to seek the old friendship; this was trusting in the Way within himself. When Duke Huan showed forth his awe-inspiring power, [Master Yuan] stood up against him without yielding; this was possessing great integrity. In general, regarding human sentiments past and present, none do not fear power and seek base escape, forget righteousness to avoid suspicion, crave fame while remaining blind to reality, side with the world while enduring isolation, adorn their conduct while fearing entanglement, and consider themselves right while censuring others. Who, possessing a Way venerated by an entire generation and serving as a teacher to the worthy, would be willing to follow someone on the basis of a single word? Who, naturally endowed from of old with superior virtue and pure and upright in conduct, would be willing to associate with a drunkard and hold his broad-mindedness in high regard? Who would compromise the veneration due a teacher of men to pay respect to an expelled guest and vindicate his worthiness? Who would reject a gentleman of illustrious fame by refusing him admission to the teaching, and thus fully safeguard the outcome? Who, out of righteousness, would not flee misfortune, maintain cordial relations with an old friend, and hold firm faith in the Way? Who, confronting the awe-inspiring might of a commanding general in the midst of slaughter, punishment, and violence, would maintain the Way without bending and preserve integrity? This is why Master Yuan's discernment and capacity were vast and far-reaching, standing alone throughout past and present. As for his upholding the supreme teaching, magnifying the sacred Way, and bequeathing abundance unto gods and humans, it is not something that an ignorant person like me can fully relate—is he not a sage, a worthy, a great man! The breathing of the Great Clod and the clear wind of the six directions—this is Master Yuan's renown. The autumn colors of the four seas and the divine mountain towering in their midst—this is Master Yuan's pure loftiness. A dragon among men and a phoenix among monks, bowing high to Chao and Xu—this is Master Yuan's exemplary track. White clouds and vermilion peaks, jade trees and fairy herbs—these are Master Yuan's dwelling place. Born after the Master, I admire him yet feel regret. Looking up to his bequeathed portrait, I bow my head in reverent homage, wishing to inscribe these poor words upon the room's wall. (Found in the *Tanjin ji*.)