廣弘明集 21.8

21.8

Your Highness, endowed with innate knowledge and superior intellect, penetrates the spirits with subtle meaning. Your natural, superior eloquence and wondrous discourses transcend the mundane. With every exchange, the entire assembly is enraptured; truly you cause the devas to praise your excellence and indeed make Śakra and Brahmā rain down flowers. Although in my youth I knew the right direction, in adulthood I have achieved no accomplishment. I join the ranks of those playing the reed-pipe unskillfully under this sage clarity, yet the reason my consciousness feels no shame in not withdrawing—how could it not be that I yearn to receive the profound purport? That I dare to make this request truly stems from the hope to hear the wondrous discourse! Now I have unworthily received your reply, which does not grant the assembly's request. Retreating to reflect on my rashness, I feel deep dread. My thirst and longing are real; my hunger and emptiness are no pretense. Examining my thoughts and checking my vows, I again pray to hear. I only hope the amṛta will be opened, thereby forever dispelling my base stinginess. I humbly pray that by your original fourfold great vow, you will graciously grant this triple request. With earnest devotion, I respectfully present this petition.