高僧傳 8.42

8.42

Shi Huiji's secular surname was Ou, and he was a native of Qiantang in the state of Wu. From childhood, his demeanor was outstanding and elegant, and his perceptive awakening surpassed others. At first, he relied on and followed Dharma Master Huiyi of Jetavana (Zhihuan) Temple. When he was fifteen, Yi commended his outstanding bearing and submitted a petition to Emperor Wen of the Song requesting permission for him to go forth from home. Emperor Wen granted an audience, consulted with him, and found him reliable and capable of bearing responsibility, whereupon he ordered a ceremony to be held at Jetavana Temple for him to go forth. The emperor's carriage visited in person, and the ministers and dukes all assembled. After Ji devoted his resolve to the Dharma gate, he practiced with rigor and asceticism, studying through night and day, his understanding thoroughly penetrating the scriptures.