明覺禪師語錄 4.2

4.2

The master, residing at two bodhimaṇḍas, delivered many utterances responding to circumstances. His disciples compiled them, and three volumes have already circulated in the world. What is recorded here consists of his downward teachings and self-answers, as well as ancient and modern public cases (kōans) that he brought up morning and evening. The expressions and meanings were broad and steep, and the students did not understand, repeatedly bringing them back to ask for further instruction. The master, having no choice, followed their doubts and questions, applying this or that, now releasing, now capturing, now putting down, now elevating, substituting a phrase or providing an alternative phrase. There are nearly one hundred and fifty cases, truly an extraordinary achievement of the era. Moreover, as I, Yuanying, have had the privilege to attend upon him, how could I neglect to gather and preserve them? Although much learning has not brought me benefit and I truly feel ashamed before the ancestral master, recording these excellent words will surely bring no reproach upon the disciple. It may be titled the *Collection of the Cascading Spring*, taking its meaning from an endless rushing torrent. May all who know me share its flavour. Dated the fifteenth day of the eighth month of the eighth year of Tiansheng [1030 CE], preface by Yuanying.