集沙門不應拜俗等事 4.39

4.39

We consider that pointing to the tree brought forth an auspicious sign, awakening dragon-like virtue in the royal line; treading upon flowers displayed an auspicious omen, holding up the wheel-treasure before the Imperial Countenance. Establishing traces in Vaiśālī, it encompassed the purple universe and opened the cosmos; laying foundations in the grinding realm, it pierced the green sunlight and shed forth brilliance. Therefore it could regulate the myriad kinds and guide the host of spirits. Resting at ease on the ten stages, they hasten to the purple-blue halls seeking the fruit; the nine heavens are tranquil and remote, and wearing the dark pearl, they inquire after the ford. Thereby the beauty of the Imperial Governance has become renowned, and the fragrance of the sovereign's accomplishments has spread afar. Black robes stand side by side with the royal carriage; yellow caps follow in close succession across the Central Province. Sitting in quiet meditation and practicing walking meditation, their Way does not participate in the halls of court; climbing the altar and holding the tablets, their traces are not numbered among audiences at court. Now to seek to restrict them with the Confucian school and entangle them in the royal regulations, making their etiquette contrary to cap ribbons and caps, while making their rules conform to hairpins and court tablets, is to value their Way yet debase their persons, to extend their teachings yet bend their rites. Rituals become manifest through teachings; people are honored on account of the Way. Certainly one may dismiss the person for the sake of the Way; one should not impair the teachings for the sake of ritual. Truly we should consult past precedents and take the old regulations as our standard, so that the style of holding one's pursuit aloft shines brightly in the emblems of the Book of Changes, and the principle of adapting to the times accords well with the hearts of the common folk. Yet the flame of a torch or the flight of a firefly—how could it add radiance to the sun and moon? A gathering of dust or the falling of dew—how can it hope to augment the beauty of the mountains and rivers? Presuming to offer our rustic words, we lightly present the songs of the multitude. Our phrasing is crude and our reasoning clumsy; in cold sweat and alarm, our spirits tremble. Respectfully submitted.