廣弘明集 27.16

27.16

Tanyuan of Guangzhai Temple respectfully states: I humbly reflect that when the Ultimate Person bequeathed his instructions, he adapted to each capacity and expedient. Therefore, externally he set out three thousand conventional matters, and internally he displayed eighty thousand Vinaya deportments. Truly, although the model instructions belong to different gates, none fail to punish evil. Confucius established penal laws to interrogate treachery and villainy; the Śākya [Sage] unfolded the karmavācanā to banish infractions of the Dharma. The two sages divided their teachings, each having their respective office. Recently, I have seen monks and nuns, whenever there is an incident, often overstepping to litigate in the public offices. Moreover, internal and external regulations follow different measures and their articles of law are not the same: sometimes what is light in the internal Vinaya becomes heavy in external statutes; sometimes what is heavy in the internal Dharma is even lighter in the external net. Common worldly feelings are prone to flattery and follow their own convenience. If they merely wish to benefit themselves, they abandon the internal heavy penalties and adhere to the external light ones; if their aim is to ensnare another, they cast aside the internal light ones and rely on the external heavy ones. Not only does this defile the contemporary ministers, but it also completely violates rational regulation. Fortunately, we have the brilliant Lord Chancellor to assist the altars of state, harmonize yin and yang, act as a boat and oars for the Mahāyāna, and serve as a pillar and foundation for the Triratna; those far and near turn toward his influence, and monastics and laity alike celebrate. This impoverished monk unworthily occupies a place in the monastic ranks and has somewhat studied and practiced the Vinaya. Having repeatedly received matters forwarded from the monastic bureau inquiring about the Vinaya, I examined and determined them, seeking out the Buddha's fully severe admonitions. The state has its penal codes; as for disputes concerning the monastic order, I do not know on what basis they should be judged. I respectfully present this memorandum and await your reply, hoping to establish an agreed regulation to be observed as a model forever. Presented by Shi Tanyuan.