集沙門不應拜俗等事 2.28

2.28

Second Memorial: Palace Attendant, your subject Sizhi, and others submit this memorial: We have repeatedly received your enlightened edict, elevating the utmost of empty yielding and treading the path of humble brilliance. In our foolish minds, filled with longing, we privately still feel ill at ease. Although methods of government differ, in principle they ultimately reach the same end. Revering parents and following teachings do not contradict Laozi. In speaking of the 'four great things', their supremacy is one. Although that which the śramaṇas mount is different, their tracks do not transcend the world; how can they fail to be identical with the subjects of Heaven? Your Majesty truly desires to magnify them from above; yet the rituals of low and high are the canonical standards for governing. We foolishly deem it fitting to stoop to accord with the minds of the multitude to serve as an enduring model for the future. We request that it be as in the previous memorial. Respectfully submitted.