廣弘明集 25.67

25.67

Monk Weixiu and others say: We have humbly heard that the realms of truth and the mundane differ: the śramaṇa severs the attachments of mortal existence; the garbs of the unseen and visible are distinct: the patchwork robe (kāṣāya) carries no posture of prostration. The principle of the Dharma inherently transcends common sentiments, and the Way continuously diverges from worldly things. Furthermore, our bodies are shaped by the moral precepts, and our thoughts are moulded by the bridge [of liberation]; repaying parental kindness is not done through bodily forms, and providing nourishment aims at the accumulation of blessings and goodness. If the decree remains unchanged, and Buddhist obeisance must be made identical to Confucian rites, the monks will bear the fault of violating the precepts, and the parents will incur the burden of diminishing their blessings. As thoughts of subjects and sons, how could we not speak our minds fully? We humbly reflect that Your Majesty fosters far-reaching plans and encourages profound aspirations; having already exalted the Dharma within the state, we also beg that it be rectified within the family. This would suffice to ensure that those who renounce the world do not practice the rituals of the world, and that those who leave the household sever the forms of respect customary to householders. Where protecting the Dharma lies, nothing comes before promoting blessings. Naturally, the teachings can be discerned, and people will know to exert themselves. Unable to contain our utmost sincerity, we respectfully submit this memorial. Profaning Your Majesty's presence, our trepidation mounts further.