鐔津文集 10.10

10.10

So-and-so, holding the official rank [stated above], sends this letter to the two celebrated scholars: Recently you graced me by extending an invitation with poetry, and Shuzhi followed suit; your refined styles rivaled one another, both truly capable of winning people's admiration. Although I wished to repay them, it was like looking at tall trees too lofty to climb; I therefore write this merely to express my sentiment of gratitude. However, Biaomin referred to me in terms of literary skill, and Shuzhi spoke of me in terms of talent, addressing me in such manner. Now, literary skill and talent are the business of sages and worthies; how could a rustic person like me be fit to partake in them? In the beginning, this poor monk was exceedingly foolish; relying on the sagely Way of the Buddha to discipline myself, my understanding and reflection barely attained rectitude. Coming to investigate what the Confucians do, my concern was to comprehend the minds of the sages of both teachings, and I also wished to use literature to support my own Way so as to adapt to the customs of the world; it was not done for the sake of vain worldly fame. In general, those who receive grace from others with sincerity dare not forget their beginnings whether in poverty or prominence; now that I have obtained the Way of the sages and attained the utmost sincerity, how could I forget it? This poor monk has always been distressed by those mediocre monks of scant understanding who, without cultivating our Way, when their names are made and their virtues are empty, rush in confusion to seek the words of Confucians on trivial matters, wishing to adorn themselves therewith; and when they incur ridicule, they bring disgrace upon the teachings of the Way without even realizing it. Yet they further carve them on stone and print them on blocks to boast to the mundane world, spending their days thoroughly pleased with themselves and taking this to be their virtue. Such as these ought especially to be expelled from our Buddha['s community]; and this poor monk finds even less favor with men on their account. How then could I abandon our Way and presume to seek fame among worthy gentlemen through petty literature and talent? Even unto death I would not dare. Therefore, when I received what you bestowed, I almost cast aside the letter and wept, saying: 'At present, the Son of Heaven is vastly enlightened, perceptive, and far-seeing; he has just turned his attention to the true Dharma of the Southern School. Having firmly abandoned myself to the weeds, I have ultimately failed to make any slight progress in this Way to assist the sagely brilliance of our lord; how could I again burden the teachings of the Way with my unworthiness?' Gentlemen, you once regarded me as cultivating myself through the Buddhist teachings, whose sincerity does not deceive Heaven and Earth and feels no shame before the spirits; if you consider that I have not yet attained it, you ought to encourage me with the virtues of a monk, but otherwise leave it at that. If you regard me as a lodging-guest and instruct me solely through literature, I dare not comply with your command. Fearing that my wretched name will sully your splendid collection, I hope you will remove it. I return your fine verses one by one. I do not elaborate further.