廬山蓮宗寶鑑 4.66

4.66

The lineage masters of the past who attained the Way, recorded above, were all extracted from the Biographies of Eminent Monks, Biographies of Rebirth, and Collection of Precious Pearls in the Great Canon. As for Patriarch Cizhao, whose transformation in the Way flourished in the world, respected and turned to by princes, ministers, monks, and laity alike, those who attained the Way through buddhānusmṛti were exceedingly numerous. Yet upon reviewing the various biographical records, none record them completely, and there are no texts that can be examined. Having now sought out and investigated the deeds of Patriarch Cizhao, they have already been included in this collection. As for all other worthy persons, whether lay or monastic, who attained the Way through buddhānusmṛti and possess renowned conduct, we specifically await noble worthies to dedicate their minds to seeking out the factual records and broadly promoting them, so that they may be supplemented and published. It is hoped that this will prevent the virtue of former practitioners from being buried and lost, and also serve as a glorious blessing for the Dharma gate.