廣弘明集 28.55

28.55

So-and-so of Yingzhou respectfully speaks: I have humbly heard that Sudatta, who covered the ground with gold, manifested a vihāra in the Jetavana; the ṛṣi of the shadow stone built a saṅghārāma at Revata. In every case, their deeds manifested in this world, while their minds relied upon the transcendent realm. But with the four fetters of delusion and affliction, we are distant from the source of good without cleansing; in the five turbidities of heavy calluses, without the blade of wisdom how could one cut through? Therefore, pitying that damp firewood and lamenting this leaky vessel, we now establish a monastery for the saṅgha of the ten directions on a certain mountain in Yingzhou. It coils around and backs onto the suburban plains, facing the city parapets; leaning against crags and ravines, it exhales and inhales mists and clouds. Multiple gates are opened wide, though the soaring palace is not yet founded; walking beneath eaves through midnight, the craft of dense stonework is still scarce. The work of majestic adornment is difficult to reach, and the resources of bowl and bottle are already exhausted. If monastic and lay people could slightly retain good thoughts and modestly encourage supreme conditions, then the matter would be like the observation of incense, and the meaning identical to the gift of a vehicle. In ancient times, those who cultivated dāna rained down the seven treasures from their hands; former worthies who gave slight offerings brought forth double gold from their palms. Merit has unseen transfers, and words have no excess modesty. Respectfully spoken.