弘明集 12.99

12.99

Leave it alone and let it settle by itself; this too is loving the nine streams universally, allowing each to fulfill their Way. Memorial of Minister of the Palace Attendant and Chancellor of the Academy Sizhi: I have again received the edict as stated above. Your Majesty's supreme virtue is completely empty, causing the myriad breathings to settle by themselves; the nine streams each pursue their excellence, and the manifest and the dark both reach their utmost. Miraculous bounty flows invisibly, with none whose thoughts are not embraced. It is that by which the myriad regions facilitate movement, and heaven and humanity communicate freely. Your servant has heard that the Buddhist teachings take spiritual wisdom as their foundation and guidance as their function; down from this, it is merely the application of restraining coarseness. The spiritual principle is remote and far-off; when sought in what is metaphysical, devoutly kneeling and rising does not impair the observance of precepts. If practicing the Way does not lose its deference, and royal law applies equal respect throughout the land, then the Way and the statutes will both prosper, and both internal and external will obtain their place. Your servant previously held an external post and was poorly informed, unaware that there had already been a luminous debate last spring. Recently, receiving the edict while on duty, I followed my foolish sentiments without fear of inadequacy. Returning here, I now see that this matter has repeatedly passed under the divine brush; its ultimate principle is remote, its analysis of principle subtle and profound, not something my dull ability can praise. The śramaṇa contending in etiquette was already practiced in previous eras. Now that the great sun has risen and the transformation of the Way is boundless, the great bonds of statecraft must not be lacking. I request that matters proceed as previously memorialized, and instructions be issued externally for implementation. Respectfully memorialized.