弘明集 9.87

9.87

思文啟。竊見范縝神滅論。自為賓主。遂有三十餘條。思文不惟闇蔽聊難論大旨二條而已。庶欲以傾其根本。謹冐上聞。但思文情用淺匱。懼不能徵折詭經。仰黷天煦伏追震悸。謹啟。

Memorial by [Cao] Siwen: I have read Fan Zhen's Treatise on the Extinction of the Spirit, which sets up host and guest in over thirty exchanges. Despite my ignorance and dullness, I have ventured to challenge two main tenets of the treatise, hoping to overthrow its foundation. I respectfully dare to submit this for Your Majesty's hearing. However, my emotions and abilities are shallow and lacking; I fear I cannot refute his unorthodox doctrine. Looking up to violate the heavenly warmth, I am filled with trembling and awe. Respectfully submitted.