廣弘明集 25.19

25.19

Imperial Decree: The duty toward sovereign and parents is weighty among the three revered bonds; the way of love and respect comes foremost among the hundred practices. Although the two gates of Śākya and Lao transcend ordinary realms in principle, their traces of respect and filial piety accord with the standards of Confucianism. Yet in the most exalted station, the ritual of kneeling and bowing has not been practiced, following routine for a long time down to the present day. The Song dynasty temporarily changed this custom, but after a short while it returned to the old practice. We have received the heavenly norms to propagate filial piety, and relied on the earth’s righteousness to proclaim ritual; encouraging nominal teachings, they cover both the sacred and the secular. Moreover, the foundation at Laixiang established the heavenly structure, and the transformation along the Lian River was entrusted to the kings—the rationale for regulation truly resides here! Now We wish to order Daoist priests, Daoist female practitioners, monks, and nuns to pay homage to the sovereign, the empress, the crown prince, and their parents. Fearing that this might upset their constant sentiments, it is appropriate to entrust the matter to the responsible authorities for detailed deliberation and reporting to the throne.