佛祖統紀 51.44

51.44

In the first year of Zhenguan under Emperor Taizong of the Tang, three thousand monks and nuns were ordained across the realm. In the ninth year, he decreed the ordination of three thousand monks and nuns, striving to select those of clear and accomplished moral practice. In the twenty-second year, Dharma Master [Xuan]zang said: 'The propagation of the Dharma requires people; ordaining monks is paramount.' Thereupon, the Emperor decreed the ordination of five monks per temple, totaling seventeen thousand people. Under Xuanzong, Tripiṭaka Master Amoghavajra established an abhiṣeka altar, ordaining tens of millions of people. The Emperor decreed that each commandery ordain three boys of genuine practice. Ruizong granted universal ordination to thirty thousand monks and Daoists. Wenzong decreed that monks and nuns without official ordination be allowed to register their names with the ministry to receive certificates; at that time, seven hundred thousand people submitted applications.