勅修百丈清規 1.21

1.21

What people value most is found in the realization of the Way (Dao). Hence, from ancient times, the sublime rulers of this land have continued to revere the teachings of our Western Sage (the Buddha) and have never failed to treat Buddhists in a manner well beyond conventional propriety. This is because they revere the Way. With respectful consideration, the Yuan imperial court has treated Buddhists most honorably; we are exempted from taxes and levies of service and are permitted to remain in our place (i.e., monasteries and temples) in order to fully devote ourselves to the realization of the Way.

Our indebtedness to imperial favor is as vast as heaven and earth, beyond measurement. We are obliged to realize the insight of Buddha-nature and return to the abode of highest good. We will give full play to the wondrous faculty of insight to transcend [the world] to the height of spirituality, lead the populace toward spontaneous conversion, and thereby promote benevolence and long life in this world. This is the way we pay our indebtedness to the throne. It is the goal for which we Buddhists strive wholeheartedly. With respect to everyday life, we have a rule to pray for imperial well-being every morning and evening and at each mealtime so as not to become unmindful of it.

II. Festivity of the Imperial Birthday