代宗朝贈司空大辨正廣智三藏和上表制集 2

English (machine translation) 2

Language: English

2.1

Compiled by the Śramaṇa Shi Yuanzhao of Ximing Temple in the Superior Capital, Chang'an.

2.2

In total twenty-two memorials and six edicts in response, making twenty-eight in all:

Memorial of thanks for posthumously bestowing official titles upon the late Tripitaka Master Vajrabodhi, one piece (with imperial reply);
Edict on offering robes and almsbowl to assist the monk Daohuan in building Jinge Temple, one piece;
Edict on offering robes and almsbowl to jointly restore the sacred Yuhua Temple, one piece;
Memorial congratulating on the pacification of Zhou Zhiguang, one piece;
Edict on selecting recitation monks for the Hall of Ten Thousand Bodhisattvas at Huadu Temple during the three long vegetarian months, one piece;
Edict on exempting the skilled craftsmen restoring Jinge and Yuhua Temples on Mount Wutai from corvée requisitions, one piece;
Edict on ordaining individuals and drafting monks for the five temples of Mount Wutai, one piece;
Edict on inviting Dharma Master Zilin to lecture at Huadu Temple, one piece;
Edict on ordaining five monks on the imperial birthday, one piece;
Edict on ordaining monks to sweep and clean the site of the late master's stupa at Longmen, one piece;
Memorial requesting an imperial calligraphy plaque for the late master's stupa, as well as holding a vegetarian feast and ordaining monks, one piece (with imperial reply);
Memorial of thanks for the gracious command to host a vegetarian feast on the late master's distant anniversary and for bestowing tea, one piece (with imperial reply);
Edict on ordaining three monks on the imperial birthday, one piece;
Edict on designating the East Stupa Compound of Guangtian Temple as an accommodation cloister for those traveling to and from Mount Wutai, one piece;
Edict on placing Mañjuśrī in the head seat within refectories of temples throughout the realm, one piece;
Edict on holding a vegetarian feast for ten thousand people in Taiyuan on the fifth day of the seventh month in the fifth year of Dali, one piece (ordering Tripitaka Master Amoghavajra to supervise);
Handwritten imperial rescript given to the Tripitaka Master on the thirteenth day of the seventh month in the same year, one piece;
Edict on establishing a Mañjuśrī Cloister at Zhide Temple in Taiyuan Prefecture, one piece;
Handwritten imperial rescript further bestowed on the fourth day of the ninth month in the same year, one piece;
Edict on installing an image in the Haoling Hall at Taiyuan and selecting monks for the Pure Land Cloister, one piece;
Memorial requesting Dharma Master Huilin to lecture at Baoshou Temple, one piece;
Memorial of thanks for the gracious bestowal of the precept ordination platform, etc., and grain rations for Daxingshan Temple, one piece (with imperial reply);
Official document of the Bureau of Sacrifices inviting Tripitaka Master Vast Wisdom to ascend the altar, one piece;
Memorial of thanks for the gracious gift of five milk cows together with calves, one piece (with imperial reply).

2.4

Memorial of thanks for posthumously bestowing official titles upon the late Tripitaka Master Vajrabodhi, one piece.

2.5

The Tripitaka Śramaṇa Amoghavajra states: I received on the first day of this month the imperial decree bestowing honors: The late Great Upādhyāya, Tripitaka Master Vajrabodhi, may posthumously be granted [the office of] Specially Promoted, Acting Chamberlain of the Court of Imperial Regalia (Kaifu yitong sansi), and furthermore posthumously granted the title 'Tripitaka Master of the Great Propagation of the Teaching'; Amoghavajra is specially promoted to Acting Chamberlain of the Court of Imperial Regalia and furthermore bestowed the title 'Tripitaka Master of Vast Wisdom.' A single rain from Heaven moistens roots and foliage; the round curl of white hair emits brilliance, illuminating both the unseen and the manifest. Holding it with utmost reverence, I pace in hesitation, grief and joy mingling together. Amoghavajra is truly fearful, truly joyful, sorrowful, and awestruck. Amoghavajra has heard that the Ten Epithets are distinct titles expressing virtue, and the Nine Ministers are weighty posts mirroring the celestial rivers. The late Great Upādhyāya’s realization pervasive and transmitting the lamp, it is indeed fitting to make manifest his enduring achievement. Amoghavajra is ashamed that his transmission of the lineage falls short, yet he vainly shares in this boundless favor—like an ordinary stone of Yan mixed with radiance, or like inflating the reeds in Qi alongside true musicians. Honor extends to both the deceased and the living; favor reaches teacher and disciple alike. Respectfully receiving it with trembling awe, looking up to speak my face turns red with shame. Moreover, upon leaving home and shedding secular dress, one fundamentally forgets honor and disgrace; to repay the State with pure sincerity is the general rule for monks. Your Majesty broadly turns the Golden Wheel and graciously gathers even broken tiles, welcoming me to meditate in the inner palace and commending me with extraordinary honors of exaltation. Though lacking the strength to bear a mountain, I tread in footsteps close to imperial guests, falling short of the noble stream of renunciation and staining the pure trace of having few desires. For this reason I thrice declined face-to-face, troubling the Ninefold Court with words, hoping Your Majesty would discern my earnest sincerity—how could I be rigidly obstinate? Like a small child in a goat-cart, I am bewildered with shame before 'Vast Wisdom'; like a base timber of the Deer Park, I am deeply abashed before 'Imperial Regalia.' Unable to bear my extreme gratitude, I respectfully present this memorial to offer thanks and report. The Śramaṇa Amoghavajra, truly fearful and truly joyful, respectfully speaks.

2.6

Presented on the fifth day of the eleventh month in the first year of Yongtai by Amoghavajra, Śramaṇa of Xingshan Temple, Specially Promoted, Acting Chamberlain of the Court of Imperial Regalia, and Tripitaka Master of Vast Wisdom.

2.7

Rescript of the Baoying Yuansheng Wenwu Emperor:

2.8

"Upādhyāya: Your path was concealed in the Twin Trees, and your achievement surpassed right awakening. Coming from afar from India, you propagated the true mantras. Recently We took refuge in you and personally received your entrustment. In the ritual codes of praise and exaltation, ranks come first; We have added the honor of seals and ribbons to solemnize the respect between teacher and student, and have also extended posthumous favor in the hope of expressing honors to the deceased."

2.9

Edict on offering robes and almsbowl to assist the monk Daohuan in building Jinge Temple, one piece.

2.10

Jinge Temple on Mount Wutai.

2.11

Presented by the Śramaṇa of Daxingshan Temple, Specially Promoted, Acting Chamberlain of the Court of Imperial Regalia, Amoghavajra of Vast Wisdom: The plaque of the aforementioned temple was inscribed by the late Emperor, but the temple buildings have not yet been completed. In accordance with the sacred traces of Mañjuśrī seen by the monk Daoyi of Quzhou when he arrived at Mount Wutai in the twenty-fourth year of Kaiyuan, the temple was named Jinge Cloister. It had thirteen bays housing monks, said to number ten thousand. The terraces, halls, gates, and towers were made of this gold. At that time, a drawing of it was made and presented to the inner palace. The common people of the world all desire that Jinge Temple be completed; who among them would not wish it? Now, the monk Daohuan of Zezhou delivers offerings to the mountain daily; admiring the events seen by Chan Master Daoyi, he resolved to construct Jinge Temple for the State in accordance with the drawing, with the number of cloisters and halls exactly as seen. This summer, work has begun, and he is personally managing the artisans and materials. It will fulfill the late Emperor's imperial plaque and ultimately realize Daoyi's spiritual communion. Observing this monk, his resolve is by no means small; one might say Mañjuśrī has acted through him to establish supreme causes. Furthermore, on the sacred mountain of Wutai there are five temple plaques: Qingliang, Huayan, Foguang, and Yuhua—these four temples were completed previously; only Jinge alone is not yet finished. Since it is a sacred trace, who would not revere it? I, Amoghavajra, wish to offer my robes and almsbowl to assist Daohuan in establishing this great undertaking. I have always feared that the years do not wait for me and that I would fall short of my longstanding wish, and I have repeatedly submitted memorials to receive the heavenly grace of pity and consent. As Mañjuśrī is the sacred trace and the Holy One is the lord, who other than Your Majesty could construct the Golden Pavilion? The ridgepoles and beams are what the great mansion relies on; the arms and legs are what the head relies on. Together they form a single body and bring harmony to all realms. For the Golden Pavilion to be thus elevated, without the ministers and counselors assisting, the military and guests aiding, and all the hundred officials continuing in succession and the thousand functionaries jointly exalting it, how could the beauty of ruler and minister be made manifest, and how could the greatness of the Golden Pavilion be glorified? The Śramaṇa of Baoshou Temple, Bhadanta Hanguang, having received an imperial mission, returned to Mount Wutai to respectfully perform meritorious deeds. I humbly hope that at the site of temple construction he may proclaim the imperial decree and pray with utmost sincerity, so that the spiritual deities may shine forth, bestowing vast blessings, bringing health and peace to the realm, and protecting the sacred person of the Emperor. If granted by heavenly grace, I request that it be proclaimed and delivered to the relevant offices.

2.12

Official Document of the Secretariat-Chancellery to Tripitaka Master Amoghavajra of Vast Wisdom:

2.13

The document received an imperial edict stating: It is approved. Upon arrival of the document, proceed in accordance with the edict. Hence this document.

2.14

Official document dated the first day of the fifth month in the second year of Yongtai.

2.15

Yuan Zai, Vice Director of the Secretariat and Joint Manager of Affairs with the Secretariat-Chancellery.

2.16

Du Hongjian, Vice Director of the Chancellery and Joint Manager of Affairs with the Secretariat-Chancellery.

2.17

Wang Jin, Vice Director of the Chancellery and Joint Manager of Affairs with the Secretariat-Chancellery.

2.18

Acting Director of the Chancellery Commissioner.

2.19

Acting Right Vice Director of the Department of State Affairs and Joint Manager of Affairs Commissioner.

2.20

Li Baoyu, Acting Left Vice Director of the Department of State Affairs and Joint Manager of Affairs.

2.21

Secretariat Director Commissioner.

2.22

Edict on offering robes and almsbowl to jointly restore the sacred Yuhua Temple, one piece.

2.23

Sacred Yuhua Temple on Mount Wutai.

2.24

Presented by Amoghavajra of Vast Wisdom, Specially Promoted, Acting Chamberlain of the Court of Imperial Regalia, Tripitaka Śramaṇa of Daxingshan Temple: The aforementioned temple, in accordance with the imperial edict of the eleventh day of the ninth month in the first year of Qianyuan, was established together with Jinge Temple. Amoghavajra previously requested to donate his own robes and almsbowl as an initial contribution. I humbly hope that the Prior (Sthavira) of this temple, Xingman, will be dispatched to oversee the construction following the precedent of Jinge Temple.

2.25

Official Document of the Secretariat-Chancellery to Tripitaka Master Amoghavajra of Vast Wisdom:

2.26

The document received an imperial edict stating: It is approved. Upon arrival of the document, proceed in accordance with the edict. Hence this document.

2.27

Official document dated the twenty-first day of the eleventh month in the first year of Dali.

2.28

Yuan Zai, Vice Director of the Secretariat and Joint Manager of Affairs with the Secretariat-Chancellery.

2.29

Du Hongjian, Vice Director of the Chancellery and Joint Manager of Affairs with the Secretariat-Chancellery.

2.30

Wang Jin, Vice Director of the Chancellery and Joint Manager of Affairs with the Secretariat-Chancellery.

2.31

Commissioner Li, Acting Director of the Chancellery.

2.32

Acting Right Vice Director of the Department of State Affairs and Joint Manager of Affairs Commissioner.

2.33

Acting Left Vice Director of the Department of State Affairs and Joint Manager of Affairs Commissioner.

2.34

Secretariat Director Commissioner.

2.35

Memorial congratulating on the pacification of Zhou Zhiguang, one piece.

2.36

Amoghavajra states: I humbly reflect that Zhou Zhiguang dared to betray the imperial decrees and bring upon himself heavenly punishment. Having accumulated evil to his own destruction, his severed head has indeed been displayed. Celebration flows across the whole realm; joy matches the warmth of spring. This was truly because Your Majesty's divine calculations were subtly at work and your sagacious plans were secretly deployed. Before the warriors could even exert their valor, the common people had already attained security. The realm has grown clear, and the barbarians have lost their resolve. Thus we know that through the power of a Sage King, achievements without warfare are accomplished; through the compassion of a Benevolent King, the lives of sentient beings are preserved. Unworthily receiving Your overflowing favor, my joyful gratitude is exceedingly multiplied. Unable to bear my extreme joy and celebration, I respectfully present this memorial to express my gratitude and report. Amoghavajra, truly glad and truly joyful, respectfully speaks.

2.37

Fourteenth day of the first month in the second year of Dali.

2.38

Presented by Amoghavajra of Vast Wisdom, Specially Promoted, Acting Chamberlain of the Court of Imperial Regalia, Tripitaka Śramaṇa of Daxingshan Temple.

2.39

Rescript of the Baoying Yuansheng Wenwu Emperor:

2.40

"Zhiguang was ferocious and mad, daring to disrupt the garrisons and passes. The royal army was briefly mobilized, and he was naturally executed. The majestic spirits of the ancestral altars and the great sages conferred their assistance; with the Master's protective contemplation, the miasma has been eternally cleared. Your congratulations are noted."

2.41

Edict on selecting recitation monks for the Hall of Ten Thousand Bodhisattvas at Huadu Temple during the three long vegetarian months, one piece.

2.42

Fourteen recitation monks for the Hall of Ten Thousand Bodhisattvas for the Protection of the State of Mañjuśrī at Huadu Temple during the three long vegetarian months:

2.43

Bhadanta Jingchao and Bhadanta Huiling of Daxingshan Temple;

2.44

Bhadanta Fazhen, Bhadanta Zhizang, and Bhadanta Dao'an of Huadu Temple;

2.45

Bhadanta Bodhinisa (whose Chinese name is Yikuan) and Bhadanta Baradan (whose Chinese name is Shan'an);

2.46

Bhadanta Tanyan;

2.47

Bhadanta Guangyan and Bhadanta Moheyan of Ximing Temple;

2.48

Bhadanta Damuo of Xingfu Temple;

2.49

Bhadanta Fachong of Qianfu Temple;

2.50

Bhadanta Yicheng of Huiri Temple;

2.51

Bhadanta Liyan of Liquan Temple.

2.52

Presented by Amoghavajra of Vast Wisdom, Specially Promoted, Acting Chamberlain of the Court of Imperial Regalia, Tripitaka Śramaṇa of Daxingshan Temple: I humbly consider that the Hall of Ten Thousand Bodhisattvas for the Protection of the State at Huadu Temple was entirely built in accordance with what was seen of Mañjuśrī on Mount Wutai—riding clouds and mounted on elephants, soaring amidst the pillars and beams, the light filling the hall being no different from the Golden Pavilion. On the twenty-third day of the twelfth month of last year, I received the gracious command bestowing incense and orally declaring the imperial decree, commanding Amoghavajra to select bhadantas proficient in recitation, and commanding Zhizang, the Abbot of the temple, to specially oversee the arena. As for the aforementioned bhadantas: some flourish in the practice of mantras and are well-versed in the vinaya rules; some proclaim the wondrous tenets and chant the True Vehicle. I request that they be selected to reside here, and during the three long vegetarian months of each year, diligently establish the arena and perform recitations for the State. Should any circumstance arise, replacements will be filled as vacancies occur. Regarding the offerings and meritorious donations inside and outside the hall, for every single item and above, I hereby request that the Three Sangha Officials take dedicated charge, in the hope that nothing will be lost.

2.53

Official Document of the Secretariat-Chancellery to Tripitaka Master Amoghavajra of Vast Wisdom (the document to the Bureau of Sacrifices is in accordance with this; Scribe Zhao Chang, Office Manager Xunyi, Director Que Yi):

2.54

The document received an imperial edict stating: It is approved. Upon arrival of the document, proceed in accordance with the edict. Hence this document.

2.55

Official document dated the sixteenth day of the second month in the second year of Dali.

2.56

Yuan Zai, Vice Director of the Secretariat and Joint Manager of Affairs with the Secretariat-Chancellery.

2.57

Du Hongjian, Vice Director of the Chancellery and Joint Manager of Affairs with the Secretariat-Chancellery.

2.58

Wang Jin, Vice Director of the Chancellery and Joint Manager of Affairs with the Secretariat-Chancellery.

2.59

Acting Palace Attendant Commissioner Li

2.60

Acting Right Vice Director and Joint Manager of Affairs Commissioner

2.61

Acting Left Vice Director and Joint Manager of Affairs Commissioner

2.62

Director of the Secretariat at the Commissioners' Bureau

2.63

One Edict: Memorial Requesting Exemption from Conscription and Corvée for the Artisans Constructing Jinge, Yuhua, and Other Temples on Mount Wutai

2.64

Chief monk supervisor for the construction of the sacred Jinge Temple on Mount Wutai in Daizhou:

2.65

Chunda, Daoxian, Fada. Carpenters: Si Can, Gu Li, Zhao Yiqin (of Dingxiang County, Xinzhou), Tan Minghui (of Wutai County), Wu Maolin, Yang Xizi (of Tanglin County), Yong Rixin.

2.66

Supervisors for the construction of the sacred Yuhua Temple:

2.67

Carpenters: Yin Tui (of Yanmen County), artisan Huo Long (of Fanshi County), Zhao Ruyan, Guo Zhe (of Tanglin County), Han Qing, Jia Li, Zhi Aba (of Tanglin County), Zhang Hui (of Fanshi County).

2.68

For repairing the common offering residences at the six sites on Mount Wutai, carpenter: Ding Xiuling (of Dingxiang County).

2.69

Ban Bin, Zhi Yican, Guo Gui, Ma Yuan,

2.70

Li Sishi, Feng Duer (of Wutai County), Ma Yuanzhe.

2.71

The above memorialized by Amoghavajra, Tripitaka Śramaṇa of Vast Wisdom, Specially Advanced, Probationary Court of Imperial Regalia Chamberlain: Earlier, having received the gracious command instructing Hanguang to oversee the construction of the aforementioned temples and the common offering residences, the timber required is naturally available within the mountain. Since this is a place of sacred traces, the work requires skilled artisans; the aforementioned artisans and others are all celebrated near and far. At present, construction on the mountain proceeds in stages, and I fear that their native prefectures and counties may summon or call them up for service. I particularly hope for Heavenly Grace to permit them to complete this meritorious work.

2.72

Secretariat-Chancellery dispatch to Amoghavajra of Vast Wisdom:

2.73

Dispatch: An imperial edict has been received: 'Entrust this to Yunjing to manage; do not let them be summoned or disturbed.' Upon arrival of this dispatch, act in accordance with the edict. Hence this dispatch.

2.74

Dispatch of the sixteenth day of the second month, second year of Dali.

2.75

Vice Director of the Secretariat and Joint Manager of Affairs Yuan Zai; below, the same as the seven ministers.

2.76

One Edict: Memorial Requesting Ordinations and Monk Transfers for Five Temples on Mount Wutai

2.77

Jinge, Yuhua, Qingliang, Huayan, Wumozi, and other temples on Mount Wutai in Daizhou:

2.78

The above memorialized by Amoghavajra, Tripitaka Śramaṇa of Vast Wisdom of Daxingshan Temple, Specially Advanced, Probationary Court of Imperial Regalia Chamberlain:

2.79

The sacred traces of Mañjuśrī have been revered since antiquity. Now encountering Your Majesty, who has specially expanded and repaired them, splendidly constructing saṅghārāmas with repeated gracious commands, this will cause the hundreds of spirits secretly to assist and the myriad sages to take refuge. The establishment and flourishing of sacred traces is grandest here. Since the places are already solemn and pure, the people should be so as well. Since the times of difficulty, the assembly of monks has gradually diminished; some, having walked about converting beings, have subsequently settled in the mundane world, while others in aranyas have followed circumstances and dwelt all about in other places. Consequently, the recitations of repentance and the bell and chanting during the hours have gradually lapsed, and under the trees, spiderwebs intersect darkly over the meditation niches. The field of merit is not yet broad, falling short of the sage's heart. I prostrately beg Heavenly Grace to allow the practitioners and postulants previously on the mountain who have long practiced austerities to be ordained, fourteen persons for each temple, and to draw seven monks of good conduct from various prefectures, so that each temple will together reach twenty-one persons to practice the Way for the state, with replacements when vacancies occur. At the five temples such as Jinge Temple, let them constantly turn the Benevolent Kings State-Protecting Sūtra and the Ghanavyūha Sūtra. Furthermore, the name of Wumozi Temple is rather unsuitable; I hope it may be changed to Dali Fahua Temple, to turn the Lotus Sūtra constantly for the state, exempt from corvée levies in the same manner as the five temples. As for those to be ordained, I hope General Zong Fengchao of Yunjing and Palace Commissioner Wei Mingxiu, together with Śramaṇa Hanguang who oversees the meritorious work, may be entrusted to select them, so that there will be no illicit abuses. Furthermore, the pavilion built for the Great Sage Mañjuśrī at Qingliang Temple is now complete; I prostrately hope for Heavenly Grace to bestow an inscribed plaque in calligraphy to illuminate future generations eternally.

2.80

Secretariat-Chancellery dispatch to Amoghavajra of Vast Wisdom:

2.81

Dispatch: An imperial edict has been received: 'Approved.' Upon arrival of this dispatch, act in accordance with the edict. Hence this dispatch.

2.82

Dispatch of the twenty-sixth day of the third month, second year of Dali.

2.83

Vice Director of the Secretariat and Joint Manager of Affairs Yuan Zai; below, the seven ministers are the same as above.

2.84

One Edict: Memorial Requesting Zilin to Lecture at Huadu Temple

2.85

Secretariat-Chancellery dispatch to Amoghavajra of Vast Wisdom:

2.86

Dispatch: An imperial edict has been received: 'Regarding the memorial request by Amoghavajra, Tripitaka Śramaṇa of Vast Wisdom of Daxingshan Temple, Specially Advanced, Probationary Court of Imperial Regalia Chamberlain, for Śramaṇa Zilin to begin lecturing at the Hall of Ten Thousand Bodhisattvas in Huadu Temple, it is approved.' Upon arrival of this dispatch, act in accordance with the edict. Hence this dispatch.

2.87

Dispatch of the twenty-eighth day of the sixth month, second year of Dali.

2.88

Vice Director of the Secretariat and Joint Manager of Affairs Yuan Zai; the seven ministers are the same as above.

2.89

One Edict: Memorial Requesting the Ordination of Five Monks on the Imperial Birthday

2.90

Practitioner Bi Shuyan, aged fifty-five (registered in no prefecture; chants one complete copy of the Sanskrit text of the Bhadrapāla Samādhi Sūtra and various dhāraṇīs; requests the Dharma name Huida; to reside at Zhuangyan Temple).

2.91

Practitioner Kang Shouzhong, aged forty-three (registered in no prefecture; chants one hundred and twenty sheets of sūtra texts and various dhāraṇīs; requests the Dharma name Huiguan; to reside at the Vairocana Courtyard of Tripitaka Master of the Great Propagation of the Teaching in Guangfu Temple of the Eastern Capital).

2.92

Practitioner Bi Yueyan, aged forty-three (registered in no prefecture; chants one complete copy of the Sanskrit text of the Laṅkāvatāra Sūtra, the Diamond Prajñā Sūtra, and various dhāraṇīs; requests the Dharma name Huiri; to reside at Zhuangyan Temple).

2.93

Postulant Shi Huican, aged thirteen (registered in no prefecture; chants one complete copy of the Sanskrit text of the Mahāmāyūrī Vidyārājñī Sūtra, the Pratisarā Dhāraṇī and sūtra; requests the Dharma name Huiguang; to reside at Ximing Temple).

2.94

Postulant Luo Quan, aged fifteen (registered in no prefecture; chants the Sanskrit text of the Anantamukhanirhāra Sūtra, the Pratisarā Dhāraṇī mantra and sūtra; requests the Dharma name Huijun; to reside at Ximing Temple).

2.95

The above memorialized by Amoghavajra, Tripitaka Śramaṇa of Vast Wisdom of Daxingshan Temple, Specially Advanced, Probationary Court of Imperial Regalia Chamberlain: The aforementioned practitioners, postulants, and others are all inherently mild and compliant, firm and solid in nature; they have applied themselves diligently to the sūtras and precepts and recited the mantras, aspiring to leave the household life and cultivate vigorously to repay the state. Now, on the occasion of the Imperial Birthday, I request that they be ordained as monks and assigned to reside in the aforementioned temples, in the hope that these blessings will support the sacred longevity of the Emperor as enduring as heaven and earth.

2.96

Secretariat-Chancellery dispatch to Amoghavajra of Vast Wisdom:

2.97

Dispatch: An imperial edict has been received: 'Approved.' Upon arrival of this dispatch, act in accordance with the edict. Hence this dispatch.

2.98

Dispatch of the thirteenth day of the tenth month, second year of Dali.

2.99

Vice Director of the Secretariat and Joint Manager of Affairs Yuan Zai

2.100

Vice Director of the Chancellery and Joint Manager of Affairs Du Hongjian

2.101

Vice Director of the Chancellery and Joint Manager of Affairs Wang Jin

2.102

Minister of War and Joint Manager of Affairs Commissioner Li

2.103

Acting Palace Attendant Commissioner Li

2.104

Acting Right Vice Director and Joint Manager of Affairs Commissioner

2.105

Director of the Secretariat Commissioner

2.106

One Edict: Memorial Requesting Ordinations of Monks to Sweep and Cleanse the Pagoda Site of the Late Master at Longmen

2.107

To sweep and cleanse the pagoda site of the late Opening the Office Equal in Honor to the Three Authorities, Tripitaka Master of the Great Propagation of the Teaching, at Longmen in the Eastern Capital:

2.108

Unregistered monk Huiheng, aged forty-six (lay surname Zhang, given name Jingmang; registered at Anxin Village, Tanshan Township, Xingyang County, Zhengzhou; father Huadao was head of household; he himself has no registration; chants one scroll of the Bodhisattva Precepts Sūtra, one scroll of the Śrāvaka Precepts, one complete copy of the Lotus Sūtra; his practice is recitation; resides at the Vairocana Pagoda Courtyard of Guangfu Temple in Henan Superior Prefecture, and travels to and fro to sweep and cleanse the pagoda site at Longmen).

2.109

Practitioner Zhao Yuanji of this courtyard, aged thirty-five (registered at Xiude Village, Longyun Township, Yunyang County, Jingzhao Superior Prefecture; father Zhenguan was head of household; he himself has no registration; chants one complete copy of the Lotus Sūtra, one complete copy of the Vimalakīrti Sūtra, one scroll of the Bodhisattva Precepts Sūtra, one scroll of the Diamond Sūtra, one scroll of the Bhaiṣajyaguru Sūtra, one scroll of the Amitābha Sūtra, four scrolls of the Golden Light Sūtra, one scroll of the Impermanence Sūtra, one scroll of the Ullambana Sūtra; to reside at Baoshou Temple; Dharma name Huilin).

2.110

Practitioner Tian Rongguo, aged thirty-three (registered at Jide Village, Jifu Township, Wannian County, Jingzhao Superior Prefecture; father Huaichang was head of household; he himself has no registration; chants the Mahāpratisarā Mantra, the Uṣṇīṣa Vijaya Dhāraṇī, the Amitābha Dhāraṇī, one complete copy of the Lotus Sūtra; to reside at Zongchi Temple; Dharma name Huijun).

2.111

Postulant Li Baoda, aged thirteen (registered at Xiuwen Village, Gudie Township, Zhaoying County, Jingzhao Superior Prefecture; father Shouxin was head of household; chants two scrolls of the Lotus Sūtra, the Mahāpratisarā Mantra, the Adhyardhaśatikā Prajñāpāramitā Sūtra; to reside at Daxingshan Temple; Dharma name Huizheng).

2.112

The above memorialized by Amoghavajra, Tripitaka Śramaṇa of Vast Wisdom of Daxingshan Temple, Specially Advanced, Probationary Court of Imperial Regalia Chamberlain: The aforementioned unregistered monk and others formerly served the late Upādhyāya, diligently attending to incense and lamps for accumulated years; their aspiration and character are gentle, steadfast, and unflagging. I request that he be given official status and dispatched with the pagoda plaque to reside there, sweeping and cleansing, in the hope of fulfilling endless devotion and showing the gratitude of disciple to master. As for the practitioners and postulants, they have all long studied mantras while also chanting scriptures; without leaving the monastery, their practice is already complete. I prostrately beg that they be granted ordination, encouraging them in their cultivation.

2.113

Secretariat-Chancellery dispatch to Amoghavajra of Vast Wisdom:

2.114

Dispatch: An imperial edict has been received: 'Approved.' Upon arrival of this dispatch, act in accordance with the edict. Hence this dispatch.

2.115

Dispatch of the thirteenth day of the sixth month, third year of Dali.

2.116

Director of the Secretariat Yuan [Zai], on leave

2.117

Chancellery: Du and Wang, same as above

2.118

One Memorial of Thanks for the Imperial Inscription of the Plaque for the Late Master's Pagoda and the Provision of a Vegetarian Feast (with response)

2.119

The śramaṇa Amoghavajra speaks: Early on, I served my late great master and undeservedly received his instructions. Ashamed to lack the wisdom of those who ascend to the hall, I was yet mistakenly granted the privilege of entering his chamber. The maṇḍala abhiṣeka altar is the source of the myriad practices and the sovereign of secret realization; when ascending the path of awakening, what does not proceed from this? When first transmitted by my late master, it opened the eyes and ears of this land. But the lamp of wisdom ceased its shining, and the sun and moon have grown ever more distant. Your Majesty, pondering the continuation of that radiant brilliance and not discarding this flawed and humble servant, issued an edict to open abhiṣeka and establish an arena. Barely resembling the preserved sacrificial sheep, how could I be an heir worthy of refuge? Yet imperial compassion bestowed its favour, and moistening grace repeatedly soaked me: an edict sealed with clay was granted to ordain five monks, their clouds [of hair] falling as their locks were shorn; heavenly meals were bestowed for a thousand persons, their fragrance borne upon the breeze. Furthermore, Your Majesty personally inscribed the plaque for the pagoda, suspended beside the rivers Yi and Luo. Beneath Dragon Gate, rising peaks gather anew; amidst the lunar disk, soaring wild geese continually assemble. Unable to bear my extreme sense of gratitude, trepidation, and trembling, I have respectfully entrusted Commissioner Li Xiancheng to present this memorial expressing thanks for Your Majesty's notice. The śramaṇa Amoghavajra, with sincere joy and delight, respectfully speaks.

2.120

Thirteenth day of the sixth month of the third year of Dali [768 CE].

2.121

Presented by the Specially Advanced, Acting Court of Imperial Regalia Chamberlain, Tripiṭaka Śramaṇa of Daxingshan Temple, Da Guangzhi Amoghavajra.

2.122

Rescript of the Baoying Yuansheng Wenwu Emperor:

2.123

The Upādhyāya is an ancestral master of the Śākya and the Brahmā heavens, to whom humans and devas look up in refuge. With the power of compassion and wisdom, you rescue living beings, broadly open maṇḍala altars, and widely propagate the essentials of the Dharma. Your merit assists the state, and your grace permeates sentient beings. Our indebtedness is truly great; there was no need to take the trouble to express thanks.

2.124

A memorial expressing thanks for the imperial command to conduct a distant-anniversary vegetarian feast for my late master and for the gift of tea.

2.125

The śramaṇa Amoghavajra speaks: Humbly receiving the gracious command that on the fifteenth day of this month, the distant anniversary of the late Tripitaka Master of the Great Propagation of the Teaching [Vajrabodhi], a feast for one thousand monks be held and one hundred and ten strings of tea be granted, I am overwhelmed with grief and have nowhere to turn, feeling sincere sorrow, awe, grief, and emotion. The late great master's way covered the four kinds of beings, and his transformation shifted throughout the ten stages. His glorious countenance is now distant; passing this memorial day redoubles the sorrow of frost and dew, and deeply accumulates the grief of the Crane Forest.

2.126

Your Majesty reverently propagates his entrustment and remotely contemplates his fragrant model, sharing the imperial meal to feed a thousand monks and distributing fragrant tea numbering more than a hundred strings. The Sanskrit monastery is full of splendor, and the Chan courtyard is richly fragrant. All who are his disciples are filled with uncontainable gratitude. Unable to master our utmost grief and gratitude, I have respectfully entrusted the Commissioner to present this memorial expressing thanks for Your Majesty's notice. The śramaṇa Amoghavajra, with sincere fear and awe, respectfully speaks.

2.127

Fifteenth day of the eighth month of the third year of Dali [768 CE].

2.128

Presented by the Specially Advanced, Acting Court of Imperial Regalia Chamberlain, Tripiṭaka Śramaṇa of Daxingshan Temple, Da Guangzhi Amoghavajra.

2.129

Rescript of the Baoying Yuansheng Wenwu Emperor:

2.130

Great Master: Your Dharma remains like the raft of the metaphor, and its brilliance is entrusted to the transmission of the lamp. Though having long realized nirvāṇa, you observe his memorial day. We ever ponder his entrustment and deeply care for his fine model. In offering merely a modest amount of fragrant tea, there was no need to trouble yourself to express thanks.

2.131

An edict concerning the request to ordain three monks on the Imperial Birthday.

2.132

The Secretariat-Chancellery sends this dispatch to Da Guangzhi Amoghavajra:

2.133

Luo Wencheng, aged thirty (registered in Tokharestan; recites the Vajracchedikā Prajñāpāramitā Sūtra, the Awakening of Faith, and the Bodhisattva Śīla Sūtra; Dharma name Huihong; requested to reside at Ximing Temple).

2.134

Luo Fumo, aged forty-five (Baoying Meritorious Official, Military Commandant, Probationary Senior General of the Right Plumed Forest Army, Acting Court of Imperial Sacrifices Chamberlain, Upper Pillar of the State, granted the Purple and Gold Fish Bag; registered in Gaoting Township, Tianbao County, Liangzhou; Dharma name Huicheng; requested to reside at Huadu Temple).

2.135

The boy Cao Mohe, aged […] (registered in the household of his father in Yong'an Ward, Anning Township, Wannian County, Jingzhao; recites one complete copy of the Lotus Sūtra; Dharma name Huishun; requested to reside at Qianfu Temple).

2.136

The dispatch has received the imperial decree: 'They shall all be ordained and assigned to reside in the aforementioned temples.' When this dispatch arrives, let it be in accordance with the decree. Hence the dispatch.

2.137

Dispatched on the thirteenth day of the tenth month of the third year of Dali [768 CE].

2.138

Vice Director of the Secretariat and Joint Manager of Affairs with the Secretariat-Chancellery, Yuan Zai.

2.139

Vice Director of the Chancellery and Joint Manager of Affairs with the Secretariat-Chancellery, Du Hongjian.

2.140

Vice Director of the Chancellery and Joint Manager of Affairs with the Secretariat-Chancellery, Wang Jin.

2.141

Minister of the Ministry of War and Joint Manager of Affairs, Commissioner Li.

2.142

Minister of Works concurrently Director of the Secretariat, Commissioner [Guo].

2.143

An edict concerning the request for the East Pagoda Cloister of Guangtian Temple to serve as a transit cloister for travel to and from Mount Wutai.

2.144

Chan Master Huiyin of the East Pagoda Cloister of Guangtian Temple has cast one-dou and five-dou lacquer-coated copper bowls, one hundred and thirty pieces in total.

2.145

Submitted by the Specially Advanced, Acting Court of Imperial Regalia Chamberlain, Tripiṭaka Śramaṇa of Daxingshan Temple, Da Guangzhi Amoghavajra: He memorializes that Huiyin is Amoghavajra's disciple, who has cast the aforementioned bowls on behalf of the state for the common offerings of Jin'ge Temple and other temples on Mount Wutai. It is requested that the cloister where Huiyin resides serve for the meritorious deed of casting on Mount Wutai and as a transit stopping place for the assembly of monks delivering offerings back and forth. Furthermore, that Huiyin be ordered to deliver the sacred vessels to Mount Wutai for perpetual offering, in the hope that this merit assists the imperial throne and grants boundless sage longevity.

2.146

The Secretariat-Chancellery sends this dispatch to Da Guangzhi Amoghavajra:

2.147

The dispatch has received the imperial decree: 'It is approved as requested.' When this dispatch arrives, let it be in accordance with the decree. Hence the dispatch.

2.148

Dispatched on the seventeenth day of the sixth month of the fourth year of Dali [769 CE].

2.149

Vice Director of the Secretariat and Joint Manager of Affairs with the Secretariat-Chancellery, Yuan Zai; the five Chief Ministers are as above.

2.150

An edict ordering that an image of Mañjuśrī be installed in the senior seat in the dining halls of all monasteries throughout the realm.

2.151

The Great Sage Mañjuśrī Bodhisattva.

2.152

Submitted by the Bhadantas of the Capital, the Specially Advanced, Acting Court of Imperial Regalia Chamberlain, Tripiṭaka Śramaṇa of Daxingshan Temple, Da Guangzhi Amoghavajra and others: Having unworthily joined the monastic order, we have long cultivated pure conduct, studied and translated the sacred scriptures, and somewhat awakened to the profound portal. The Great Sage Mañjuśrī Bodhisattva has comprehensively propagated both the Mahāyāna and the esoteric teachings. Now he resides on Mount Wutai, bestowing blessings upon the myriad people. We humbly reflect that His Majesty, the Baoying Yuansheng Wenwu Emperor, possesses virtue matching Heaven and Earth and brilliance rivaling the sun and moon, whose boundless fortune brings peace to our people. We humbly request that from now on, throughout the realm, in the dining halls [of monasteries], an image of Mañjuśrī be specially installed above Piṇḍola to serve as the senior seat. Consulting the sacred scriptures, there is explicit textual authority: even the Tathāgata of the Saṅghika obeyed his instructions, and all who leave household life should naturally tuck up their robes [in reverence]. Samantabhadra and Avalokiteśvara still hold whisks and act as his attendants; the Śrāvakas and Pratyekabuddhas hold brooms and stand behind him. This is indeed the practice throughout the land of India, and is not merely the humble view of us monks. We also request that this be made a permanent rule forever.

2.153

The Secretariat-Chancellery sends this dispatch to the Bureau of Sacrifices:

2.154

The dispatch has received the imperial decree: 'The Great Sage Mañjuśrī Bodhisattva is the Son of the Dharma King, whose awesome virtue is exceptionally revered, and who is the guide of all Buddhas. He cleanses the hearts and eyes of all living beings, brings peace to our myriad people, and rescues them boundlessly. If he is not venerated, to whom shall people look up? Now the bhadantas of the capital have earnestly submitted this memorial, which elegantly accords with the sacred scriptures. The request is approved.' When the dispatch arrives, let it be in accordance.

2.155

Hence the dispatch by imperial decree.

2.156

Nineteenth day of the twelfth month of the fourth year of Dali [770 CE].

2.157

Secretariat: the four Chief Ministers are as above.

2.158

An edict concerning the provision of a feast for ten thousand people at Taiyuan with Tripiṭaka Amoghavajra on the fifth day of the seventh month of the fifth year of Dali [770 CE].

2.159

The Secretariat-Chancellery sends this dispatch to the monk, Tripiṭaka Amoghavajra: The dispatch has received the imperial decree: 'A vegetarian feast for ten thousand people should be held in Taiyuan. Procure all categories of official funds and goods from Taiyuan Prefecture, and supply them according to the required amounts without causing any shortage. Further, order Tripiṭaka Amoghavajra to supervise this.' When this dispatch arrives, let it be in accordance with the decree. Hence the dispatch.

2.160

Dispatched on the fifth day of the seventh month of the fifth year of Dali [770 CE].

2.161

Vice Director of the Secretariat and Joint Manager of Affairs with the Secretariat-Chancellery, Yuan Zai.

2.162

Vice Director of the Chancellery and Joint Manager of Affairs with the Secretariat-Chancellery, Wang Jin.

2.163

Minister of the Ministry of War and Joint Manager of Affairs, Commissioner Li.

2.164

Minister of Works concurrently Director of the Secretariat, Commissioner [Guo].

2.165

An imperial handwritten letter given to the Tripiṭaka on the thirteenth day of the seventh month of the same year.

2.166

Decree to the Upādhyāya, Tripiṭaka Master Da Guangzhi: Having long cultivated concentration and wisdom, you early on accorded with Yoga. Visiting the sacred mountain from afar, you personally prayed for the holy path. The supreme spirit unfailingly responds, and profound resonance has been attained. The blue lotus metaphorically represents your mind; clear realization is present here. In the lingering heat of autumn, please take good care of your health. The purpose of sending this letter cannot encompass all details.

2.167

Thirteenth day.

2.168

An edict concerning the request to establish a Mañjuśrī Cloister at Zhide Temple in Taiyuan.

2.169

The Secretariat-Chancellery sends this dispatch to Tripiṭaka Master Da Guangzhi Amoghavajra:

2.170

The dispatch has received the imperial decree: 'The Specially Advanced, Acting Court of Imperial Regalia Chamberlain, Tripiṭaka Master Da Guangzhi Amoghavajra has memorialized, requesting to establish a Mañjuśrī Bodhisattva Cloister at Zhide Temple in Taiyuan Prefecture, to select fourteen bhadantas of the three learnings to take turns propagating the root teaching so as to continue the lamp of the Dharma, and further requesting that Dharma Master Daoxian preach constantly at this temple. It is approved as requested.' When the dispatch arrives, let it be in accordance with the decree. Hence the dispatch.

2.171

Dispatched on the thirteenth day of the seventh month of the fifth year of Dali [770 CE].

2.172

Vice Director of the Secretariat and Joint Manager of Affairs with the Secretariat-Chancellery, Yuan Zai; the four Chief Ministers are as above.

2.173

Another imperial handwritten letter granted on the fourth day of the ninth month of the same year.

2.174

Decree to the Upādhyāya, Tripiṭaka Master Da Guangzhi: You have profoundly aligned with the source of the Way and sought sacred traces afar. With your wondrous power of compassion, you should demonstrate the true principle. The five aggregates being empty, Suchness is present here. In the autumn chill, is the Upādhyāya well and peaceful recently? The purpose of sending this letter cannot encompass all details.

2.175

Fourth day.

2.176

An imperial edict concerning the request to install an image in the Command Hall and select monks for the Pure Land Cloister at Taiyuan.

2.177

In the Great Tang Xingguo Tai-Chongfu Temple in Taiyuan Prefecture, at the Command Hall where Emperor Gaozu Shenyao raised his righteous rebellion, it is requested to install an image set of Samantabhadra Bodhisattva; and at the abhiṣeka arena of the Pure Land Cloister, it is requested to select fourteen monks to recite the Uṣṇīṣa Vijaya Dhāraṇī continuously on behalf of the state.

2.178

Submitted by the Specially Advanced, Acting Court of Imperial Regalia Chamberlain, Tripiṭaka Śramaṇa Da Guangzhi Amoghavajra: Having previously received the imperial command to go to Mount Wutai to perform meritorious works, I arrived in Taiyuan and visited the aforementioned temple. There I was able to behold the holy traces where Gaozu and Taizong raised their righteous rebellion, which are located in this temple. This is truly the source from which the imperial enterprise of the state arose, and certainly should not be treated like ordinary monasteries. I humbly beg Your Imperial Compassion to exempt it from all corvée levies and land taxes, and turn them instead to support [the temple].

2.179

…to hold vegetarian feasts and burn incense on the death anniversaries of the Seven Sages, from Gaozu and Taizong onward, as well as to repair the Hall of Issuing Orders and install Samantabhadra Bodhisattva. Furthermore, during the three long vegetarian months, on the ten vegetarian days of each month, let all the monks of the temple recite the Benevolent Kings Prajñāpāramitā Sūtra for the Protection of the State on behalf of the Seven Sages from Gaozu to Suzong, so that boundless blessings may forever support the Seven Sages, and the endless sounds of the Dharma may accord with the August Longevity above. Regarding the monks who perform the recitation, we humbly request that they be strictly and carefully selected and their names recorded. We request to report this and ask that the secular guests previously lodged there be dismissed at once.

2.180

Official dispatch from the Secretariat-Chancellery to the Tripitaka Master and Śramaṇa of Vast Wisdom, Amoghavajra:

2.181

Official dispatch: Having respectfully received the imperial edict to comply with the request, let this be carried out in accordance with the edict upon the arrival of this dispatch. Hence this dispatch.

2.182

Dispatch of the first day of the tenth month of the fifth year of Dali.

2.183

Vice Director of the Secretariat and Joint Manager of Affairs with the Secretariat-Chancellery, Yuan Zai.

2.184

Vice Director of the Chancellery and Joint Manager of Affairs with the Secretariat-Chancellery, Wang Jin.

2.185

Minister of War and Joint Manager of Affairs with the Secretariat-Chancellery, Li (at the Commissioner's Office).

2.186

Minister of Education and concurrently Secretariat Director (at the Commissioner's Office).

2.187

Memorial Requesting That Dharma Master Huilin Lecture at Baoshou Temple, One Piece

2.188

The śramaṇa Amoghavajra states: Amoghavajra has heard that translating scriptures on palm leaves is the means to glorify the Śākya teaching, and expounding gāthās of the lotus is how it is entrusted to the Heavenly King. We respectfully reflect that Your Majesty's position weighs heavily upon the golden wheel, yet your mind roams in the precious verses; your filial virtue moves Heaven and Earth, and your cultural brilliance matches the sun and moon. I have observed that Monk Huilin of Zhangjing Temple embraced keen intelligence from youth and vowed to transmit the lamp. He expounds the Mahāyāna to repay the vast creation above; he constantly recites the subtle meanings and can proclaim them. Considering his location, he has been uniquely fortunate to be soaked in heavenly grace. Now, for the sake of the state, Amoghavajra requests that he expound the true scriptures for both clergy and laity at Baoshou Temple, so that the ancestral shrines and the imperial fortune may endure across great kalpas, matching the years of a fast, and the field of merit for the common people may uproot Sumeru to form their lifespan. If heavenly grace permits, I request that you hand down

2.189

an imperial ink rescript granting the memorial.

2.190

The second day of the second month of the sixth year of Dali.

2.191

Submitted by Amoghavajra, Specially Advanced, Acting Court of Imperial Regalia Chamberlain, and Tripitaka Śramaṇa of Vast Wisdom.

2.192

Memorial of Thanks for the Bestowal of Rations and Provisions for the Platform for Administering the Precepts of the Vaipulya at Daxingshan Temple, One Piece

2.193

The śramaṇa Amoghavajra states: Palace Commissioner Li Xiancheng respectfully proclaimed the imperial decree specially bestowing non-glutinous rice, glutinous rice, millet, oil, firewood, and various items upon Daxingshan Temple's arena of the platform for administering the precepts of the Vaipulya, all fully supplied to meet the needs of the vegetarian offerings. Receiving this, I am filled with mixed feelings of shame, awe, joy, and trembling. Being granted permission for this arena was already an immense fortune; receiving additional offerings for the saṅgha is indeed deep as rain and dew. I am personally ashamed to have no means to repay or render service above; I can only diligently exert extra effort day and night in recitation, hoping to recompense one ten-thousandth. I have respectfully led the assembly of monks seeking ordination in twenty-one days of sincere recitation and diligent circumambulation to cultivate supreme blessings for the state, hoping that boundless merit may support the imperial person above. I am overwhelmed with shame and gratitude beyond measure. I respectfully submit this memorial of thanks through Palace Commissioner Li Xiancheng to bring it to your notice. The śramaṇa Amoghavajra, with sincere joy and fear, respectfully speaks.

2.194

Memorial submitted on the twenty-eighth day of the third month of the sixth year of Dali by Amoghavajra, Specially Advanced, Acting Court of Imperial Regalia Chamberlain, and Tripitaka Śramaṇa of Vast Wisdom of Daxingshan Temple.

2.195

The Baoying Yuansheng Wenwu Emperor replied:

2.196

The Tripitaka Master's compassionate benevolence and focused sincerity reflect deep mindfulness of the imperial house and the state. You broadly cultivate blessings and benefit, extensively covering living beings, establishing maṇḍala altars, expounding the subtle scriptures, inspiring future students, and planting good conditions. What has been bestowed is not generous; why should you go so far as to give thanks?

2.197

Dispatch from the Secretariat-Chancellery

2.198

Notification dispatch from the Bureau of Sacrifices requesting that the Tripitaka Master of Vast Wisdom ascend the altar, one piece (The dispatch from the Secretariat-Chancellery follows this)

2.199

Tripitaka Master of Vast Wisdom, Amoghavajra, of Xingshan Temple:

2.200

Regarding the memorial by Bhadanta Huiche and others presiding over the altar at Baoshou Temple: We humbly consider that the Tripitaka Master and National Preceptor is the rampart and moat of the Buddhist gate, looked up to across the four seas, and the ancestral leader for both capitals. The pure ordination platform relies on an elder of venerable virtue. We humbly request that he ascend the altar to uphold the Dharma and confer the precepts upon the assembly.

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Linked texts (1)

代宗朝贈司空大辨正廣智三藏和上表制集 — 圓照, Classical Chinese