廣弘明集 24.18

24.18

From the Chancellery: The Controller of Śramaṇas of Xuzhou, Sengcheng, had a style and intellect both profound and comprehensive, and his character and conduct were peerlessly elegant. His karmic practice in the Way was bright and extensive, and his appreciation of principle deep and pure. His pure renown and flourishing reputation were renowned early on in Xu and Pei; his heroic spirit and profound insight spread their influence through Qiao and Song. Recently he preached the Dharma in the northern capital, his virtue perfuming monastics and laity alike; responding to offerings at the imperial feast, he spread goodness through the palace halls. He was a talent of benevolence and wisdom whom We deeply praised and esteemed. His karmic conditions having reached their end, he has passed into another world. When We suddenly received this news recently, sorrow and grief filled Our heart. Now, as Our journey halts by Yan and Pu, Qing and Si are not far; grieving as We recall his virtue, Our sorrow is all the greater. Let an order be sent down to Xuzhou to donate three hundred bolts of silk to provide for his posthumous merit, and also to host a vegetarian feast for five thousand people.