廣弘明集 24.56

24.56

Arising and cessation are impermanent. Your worthy younger brother, Dharma Master Zhen, suddenly resembled the wrestling hero whose consciousness departed to be reborn in the Path. With his eternal departure, his Dharma words are forever cut off; my grief and sorrow break my heart, and I cannot cease. His age was not yet advanced, and his virtuous karma was just spreading forth. When his illness had only just begun, we thought there would be no cause for grave worry, yet it came to his passing away, leaving both monastics and laity in shock and astonishment. Thinking of the closeness of fraternal affection, the supreme sorrow of brothers over his eternal departure is truly unbearable. What can be done? What can be done? The Dharma Master's taste for doctrine was comprehensive and harmonious; he was a leader among the black-robed sangha, his capacity for understanding gentle and harmonious, and his reputation illustrious in his time. Formerly in the capital, the Sagely Sovereign looked upon him with favor; since returning to his home province, successive administrations have treated him with reverence. Moreover, his explanations of the teachings brought benefits that were truly vast and manifold, and his founding of temples genuinely broadened karmic blessings. His mind was open and magnanimous, never conflicting with things; those with whom he associated were all the worthy of the age. Monastics and laypeople attributed goodness to him, and those near and far revered him. How could this merely be the withering and loss of one who calms the mind? It is truly also the loss of a treasure among human relations. Looking back with sorrowful grief, how could it ever subside? Furthermore, receiving his posthumous letter and bequeathed items only increases my weeping and choking. His Highness is personally composing an inscription for him, and has also instructed Recorder Bao to compose the preface for the tomb tablet. Fearing that Bao might not yet know everything thoroughly, I was able to explain to Bao in person his various deeds, practices, and glorious virtues, so I believe it will certainly be carved as an imperishable monument. Now, as I state this, the stone for the tomb tablet has been transported by deer-cart, and artisans have been summoned to fashion it; the carving should also be completed before long. Speaking of this increases my flowing tears; I drop my brush in grief and oppression. Liu Zhilin bows his head, bows his head.