集沙門不應拜俗等事 4.41

4.41

We respectfully submit that the Utmost Way is empty and tranquil, and the Buddhist teaching is serene and still. Serving as a ford and bridge for the myriad sorts, they guide all living beings, eradicating vulgar conduct before it sprouts and bringing forth compassionate hearts in those already awakened. However, while saving living beings by putting oneself behind them relies on names and words, encouraging goodness and chastising wrongdoing does not depend on rewards and punishments. Faith is indeed the skillful opening of expedients that secretly assists the governance of the state. We humbly reflect that His Majesty the Emperor matches heaven and earth in virtue and moistens flora and fauna with grace; all sentient beings endowed with breath bear the grace of his transforming fulfillment. Monks and nuns truly ought to kneel and bow. However, that they do not bow to sovereign and father is recorded in the scriptures. Your servants believe that if the Way can be preserved, its words cannot be abandoned. Furthermore, sovereign and father are supreme in honor, and their position is beyond all comparison; for subjects and sons, respect does not depend solely on bowing. Since the Way and the mundane are distinct, there is no suspicion of arrogance or vanity. In your servants' foolish view, it is fitting that they do not bow. Respectfully submitted.