佛祖統紀 16.59

16.59

Dharma Master Zongzhao was a native of Siming. Initially he went to Nanhu to see Mingzhi, and later entered the chamber of Yuanzhao, who appointed him assistant lecturer. He went forth to preside over Xingjiao and then moved to Shousheng. Having suffered the devastation of the Jianyan era, only the main hall remained, with a few hundred rafters of thatched roofs and a dozen or so surviving monks. He remained completely at ease. He often said: 'The Buddhas and Bodhisattvas conduct Buddha-work throughout the entire Dharma realm; yet in this tiny, foot-wide land of Yunxi, we cannot accomplish anything—this too is merely because our conditions and strength are insufficient. Even if I could accomplish it, how would it be worth speaking of? What Jeta and Anāthapiṇḍada donated was immeasurable, counted in hundreds of millions; yet in this tiny, foot-wide land of Yunxi, nothing has been accomplished—this too is merely because conditions and strength are insufficient. Even if I could accomplish it, how would it be considered much? One should only know to diligently engage in lecturing and guiding, and devotedly cultivate progress, in order to repay the Buddha's benevolence, and that is all.' Soon after, students arrived in increasing numbers day by day, and almsgivers came daily; the buildings were completely renovated because of him.