弘明集 10.31

10.31

Your disciple Chen pays homage. Graced by your notice, I have prostratively seen the imperial decree answering the ministers' examination of the Treatise on the Extinction of the Spirit. It wondrously probes the divine workings and brings the ritual teachings into full play. Truly, it suffices to enhance the radiance of the pure Dharma and cause Confucian schools to respect their pursuit. Sentient beings awaken to the condition-enlightened ones, and the people contemplate the way of filial piety; the root of human relationships is made all the more illustrious through this. Deceitful distortions of the classics that disrupt common customs collapse of themselves without need of striking. Reading and chanting it, I dance with joy, unable to bear my veneration. My younger brother was dull and short-sighted, incurring guilt; he is now under prosecution. In both public and private matters, I am scorched with anxiety, my emotions and thoughts shaken. I have nothing with which to look up to and praise the grand design, or to respond to and extol the refined meanings. Receiving the transformation that opens up the Dao, I prostratively feel apprehension and shame. Your generous favor in extending this demonstration leaves me inscribing and drinking in your benevolent guidance. Your disciple Xiao Chen pays homage.