廣弘明集 24.14

24.14

From the Chancellery: In venerating causes and aiding karmic deeds, nothing surpasses honoring the profound; in assisting the spirit and imbuing the mind, who takes precedence over the eminent and wise? Therefore, the Duke of Zhou made his announcement on companions, and Śākyamuni proclaimed the teaching of good spiritual friends (kalyāṇamitra). Thus, those of exalted position value taking in the worthy, and those of superior virtue prize closeness to the benevolent. Although We are of meager understanding, how could We not aspire to this? In the previous reign, while pacifying the realm, there was no leisure for inner cultivation; consequently, the imperial court lacked the demeanor of lofty detachment, and the palace gates excluded the deportment that transcends the secular. In terms of the principle of admiring virtue and the requisites for the field of merit, this was truly inadequate. We intend to have Dharma Masters of admirable virtue come to meet with Us at times; forward, We may partake of the flavor of the Way, and backward, they may illuminate and adorn the court. Let the Palace Service be ordered to permit them to enter three times a month. The number of persons and their Dharma names will be sent under separate dispatch.