緇門警訓 3.34

3.34

The Commentary on the Vinaya Deeds states: "Looking broadly across the realms of existence, because there is no thought of departing from defilement, the joy of going forth to dwell in quiet seclusion is established. If there is craving and attachment, it will ultimately become a golden chain. For leading people out through skillful means, there is only this single path. As the Puṣpahasta-sūtra states: 'There are four dharmas through which one transforms one's body, whereupon one is born by transformation on a lotus as an ehibhikṣu, with life span presently increased: first, personally rejoicing in going forth and also encouraging others so that they delight in going forth; second, seeking the Dharma untiringly and also encouraging others; third, personally practicing harmony and forbearance and also encouraging others to practice them; fourth, practicing skillful means and profoundly generating great vows.' Furthermore, the Chujia gongde jing states: 'If one can allow someone to go forth and receive the precepts, the merit is boundless. For instance, if one were to make offerings for a hundred years to arhats filling the four continents, it would not equal someone going forth and receiving the precepts for a single day and night for the sake of nirvāṇa.' This is because previous generosity, though great, has an end and is bound to the desire realm; whereas going forth for the sake of the Dharma is not an action bound to the three realms. Therefore it is said to surpass the former. It also states: 'Even if one erected a jeweled stūpa reaching to the Trāyastriṃśa Heaven, it would still fall short of the merit of going forth.' One's momentary delight in going forth may not seem much to reckon, yet this accumulation of subtle deeds is the foundation of supreme excellence."