禪林寶訓 2.38

2.38

Yuanwu said to Fojian: "Every movement and action of Grandmaster Baiyun was sure to be examined against antiquity. He used to say, 'Matters not examined against antiquity are called unlawful. I have memorised many of the words and deeds of the ancients, and so fulfilled my aspirations.' Yet it was not merely that he was fond of antiquity; rather, contemporary people are not fit to be emulated. Our late teacher often said, 'The Grandmaster clings to antiquity and does not understand timely adaptiveness.' The Grandmaster said, 'Changing precedent and altering the constant standard is the greatest calamity of contemporary people. I will never do it.'" (Chanhe Shangren Rilu)