鐔津文集 2.23

2.23

Monastic Rectors were established with a rank equal to Palace Attendants. What does this mean? Establishing Rectors was not ancient practice; it began with the Yao Qin. Establishing Rectors is permissible, but establishing an official rank is not permissible. Monks are those who cast aside honor and profit to surpass the world through superior virtue; how could they take part in imperial favors and stipends? In giving monks official ranks, does one not initiate and lead later generations into competing for power? Daoxie was not enlightened and did not know how to nip this development in the bud; this was Daoxie's fault. Now, monks are those who arise from precepts, samādhi, and wisdom. Rectors are those who arise from sincerity and illumination. If a monk is not sincere and illuminated, who can be truly firm in precepts, truly firm in samādhi, and truly firm in wisdom? If one is not sincere in precepts, samādhi, and wisdom, then I do not know how he can serve as a Rector. The four dynasties of Song, Qi, Liang, and Chen also followed Qin in establishing Rectors. The Two Wei, Northern Qi, and Later Zhou reformed the Qin system and established Directors (tong). The Sui succeeded the Zhou and likewise established Directors. The Tang reformed the Sui, abolishing Directors and establishing Registrars (lu). Our current dynasty followed the Tang system: in the two capitals it established Registrars, and in the various commanderies it established Rectors. Although the continuations and reforms of ancient and modern times differ, that which they preside over is one. It is difficult to find the right people throughout the world, and this has been so in both ancient and modern times. If one truly obtains those who are upright, then our people will be virtually free of corruption. Be prudent! Be prudent! How difficult to find the right people!