集沙門不應拜俗等事 4.13

4.13

The flourishing of the Buddhist Way has a long history. Since the white light shone in the east and the purple vapor drifted to the west, none have failed to follow those five thousand words and revere these two teachings. Non-action and quiescence together plant superior causes. The monks, nuns, Daoist priests, and Daoist priestesses hasten to uphold the scriptures and instructions. As teachings, their aid and benefit are truly great. Reviewing previous generations, there were choices made to adopt or reject; that they uniformly complied with not bowing is indeed worthy of consideration. As for the Way being the ancestral source from which the imperial foundation arose, its dignity and urgency differ from ordinary human relations. How could one alter the practice to make a separate rite, bending down to follow common custom? Following tradition and not bowing is deemed reasonable and appropriate. Respectfully deliberated.