弘明集 4.48

4.48

釋曰。逮省此章盛陳列代。文博體周頗善師法。歌誦聖世足為繁聲。討求道義未是要說耳。昔在幼壯。微涉群紀。皇王之軌賢智之迹。側聞其略。敢辱其詳惠示之篤實勤執事。

[Zheng Daozi] explains: When I examine this chapter, it copiously arrays the successive dynasties; its text is broad, its style complete, and it is quite good as an exemplar. Singing the praises of sage eras provides a rich chorus, yet when seeking the meaning of the Dao, it is not an essential discourse. When I was young and vigorous, I dabbled slightly in the various records; as for the tracks of sovereign kings and traces of the wise and worthy, I have heard their outline. How could I presume to tax you with full details? The earnestness of what you have kindly shown me has truly toiled your service.