勅修百丈清規 2.56

2.56

Under the ancient rules, when the abbot patrolled the dormitories, the “Patrolling Dormitories” board was hung before the Sangha hall to notify the assembly. Each dormitory set up seats and prepared incense, tea, and decoction. Awaiting the abbot's arrival, they struck the wooden board to assemble the community, lining up outside the door to greet with folded hands, and followed the abbot into the dormitory. The dormitory host burned incense, greeted with folded hands together with the community, and sat down. The abbot inquired after the aged and ill, inspected any shortages in the dormitory quarters, chatted, and arose. The community was to spread their niṣīdanas to give thanks for his visit; if declined, they greeted with folded hands and saw him off. Sometimes patrols were made on the new and full moons (in which case no board was hung). Nowadays, [patrolling the dormitories] is conducted only as a courtesy call during the four seasonal festivals, and is not held on other days. Those who are able to restore the ancient practice should perform it.