代宗朝贈司空大辨正廣智三藏和上表制集 6

English (machine translation) 6

Language: English

6.1

Compiled by the monk Śramaṇa Yuanzhao of Ximing Temple in Chang'an, the Supreme Capital

6.2

A total of twenty-two memorials, eleven imperial replies, thirty-three pieces in all:

One memorial presenting the Lotus Sūtra in gold lettering by the Supervisory Commissioner Li Xiancheng (with imperial reply)
One memorial congratulating the pacification of Li Lingyao
One memorial requesting the ordination of a monk by the monk Yuanjiao
One memorial thanking for bestowed gifts by the monk Changqing
One song on Śramaṇa Chonghui climbing the knife ladder (with preface)
One eulogy on Śramaṇa Chonghui climbing the knife ladder (with preface)
One memorial thanking for the bestowal of the purple robe by Śramaṇa Chonghui (with imperial reply)
One memorial presenting the completion of the dusting and cleaning of temple pagodas and statues in the capital by imperial order (with imperial reply)
One memorial presenting the accounts of merit inside and outside the Mañjuśrī Pavilion at Xingshan Temple (with imperial reply)
One memorial thanking for the imperial bestowal of forty bolts of silk wadding, coloured silk, and thin silk (with imperial reply)
One imperial decree of Suzong ordering the Tripitaka Master's disciples Huigu and others to enter the Inner Arena for recitation
One imperial decree ordering the Tripitaka Master's disciple monk Huixiao to recite [mantras] for the state
One imperial decree of Daizong ordering Ximing Temple to provide gruel, rice, and riding mounts for transit
One memorial taking leave of the imperial grace to go to Mount Wutai to cultivate merit (with imperial reply)
One memorial thanking for the imperial order to cultivate merit together with Huilang (with imperial reply)
One memorial presenting a kiṃśuka jewel on New Year's Day (with imperial reply)
One imperial edict written in the emperor's own hand on the thirteenth day of the eighth month
One memorial presenting the cultivation of homa merit at Mount Wutai (with imperial reply)
One imperial decree commanding Fagao, Rector of Daxingshan Temple, to oversee matters as before
One memorial thanking for the imperial order commanding Dharma Master Youze to lecture at Xingshan Temple (with imperial reply)
One memorial thanking for the decree appointing Śramaṇa Huilang as Abbot of Xingshan Temple (with imperial reply)
One stele inscription for the Tang Master of Works, the Tripitaka Master and Upādhyāya Amoghavajra of Great Eloquence, Rectitude, and Vast Wisdom (composed by Yan Ying)

6.4

One memorial presenting the Wonderful Dharma Lotus Sūtra in gold lettering

6.5

Your servant Xiancheng says: Your servant has heard that when a son acquires a single good thing, he must present it to his father; when a subject acquires a single good thing, he must present it to his sovereign. Now, as for this Lotus Sūtra in gold lettering, its text was handed down from Vulture Peak and inscribed on authentic palm leaves; its marvel was transcribed in the Dragon Palace, taking its metaphor from the lotus flower. Therefore its rollers are made of rare treasures, and it is written in gold characters. Its dynamic strokes resemble hanging dew; its radiance outshines the crowded stars. Opening the scroll to uphold it is like a hundred blossoms bursting on spring trees; unrolling the text to expound it is like a flock of wild swans rising from the vast sea. It purifies the five turbidities and adorns the six faculties. I respectfully present it on my knees on New Year's Day to manifest auspiciousness. I humbly pray that your lifespan will match that of the Tathāgata, prolonging Your Majesty's prosperous age. Unable to bear the utmost sincerity of a dog or horse, I respectfully present it to be heard. Your servant Xiancheng speaks with sincere fear, sincere trepidation, and repeatedly bowing his head.

6.6

Presented with memorial on the first day of the first month of the thirteenth year of Dali by Li Xiancheng, Original Follower, Grand Master for Closing Court, Acting Palace Receiver of the Palace Domestic Service, Granted the Crimson Fish Pouch, Supreme Pillar of State

6.7

The Emperor of Baoying, Prime Sagacity, and Civil and Martial Virtue replied:

6.8

"As an intimate minister supervising the cultivation of merit, you have presented this wondrous scripture on the celebration of the new year. When unrolled, it is brilliant and radiant, and profoundly commendable. I have noted what was presented."

6.9

One memorial congratulating the pacification of Li Lingyao

6.10

Your servant Qian says: I have humbly heard that the Military Commissioner of Huahao, [Li] Mian, and others, reverently receiving your sagacious plans and obediently executing Heaven's punishment, have captured Lingyao and defeated Tian Huang, sweeping away the dust of warfare from the west of the River and recovering the prefectures and counties of Daliang, thereby rescuing the common people from the misery of mud and charcoal and making known the imperial mind's compassionate benevolence. The myriad states rejoice together, and millions of people congratulate one another, displaying the efficacious blessing of the Ancestral Temples and illuminating the awe-inspiring spirit of the Sage Sovereign. In my mediocre insignificance, I have fortunately encountered this sagacious era; hearing of this great joy, I cannot bear my dancing delight. Respectfully accompanying the Palace Commissioner Li Xiancheng, I present this memorial to offer congratulations to be heard. Your servant Qian speaks with sincere joy and sincere delight.

6.11

Twenty-ninth day of the tenth month of the eleventh year of Dali

6.12

Memorial submitted by your servant Zhao Qian, former Adjutant of the Left Militant Guard and Hanlin Academician Waiting upon Edict

6.13

One memorial by Śramaṇa Yuanjiao requesting the ordination of a monk

6.14

Śramaṇa Yuanjiao submits his daily inquiries, praying for myriad blessings upon the imperial person. Yuanjiao was born and lived in Fuzhou, of remote and base station. In my advanced age I have been exceedingly fortunate to attend the imperial carriage. Returning to the capital from Lingwu, I encountered Buddhist services at the imperial court. Receiving the posthumous instructions of my late master, I dedicated myself to the state and forgot my own life. Ashamed that I lack even a hair's breadth of merit, I have already reached the age of following my heart's desires. My body is plagued by illness, and there is no one to attend and nurse me. Looking up to contemplate the imperial compassion, I pray for your special sorrow and pity. I have a nephew named Xiaochang who was favored early on by imperial grace and by mistake placed in exalted ranks. In truth, he lacks any service to repay the state, but his aspiration lies in the conduct of leaving home. Knowing his true practice, in recommending him I do not shy away from my kin. Though residing at home, he always diligently recites and studies. I humbly pray that the imperial favor might extend to him and grant this extraordinary personal grace, in the hope that I may exhaust my remaining years and ever aspire to repay Your Majesty above. Unable to bear my utmost sincerity and fear, on this birthday of the sovereign I respectfully submit this request through the Palace Commissioner Wei Xinglin to be heard. If the heavenly grace permits, I pray it be dispatched to the competent bureau. I have respectfully detailed his credentials as follows. Śramaṇa Yuanjiao speaks with sincere fear and sincere trepidation.

6.15

Ninth day of the tenth month of the thirteenth year of Dali

6.16

Memorial submitted by Śramaṇa Yuanjiao, Former Recitation Monk of the Hall of Longevity Arena and Abbot of Baoshou Temple

6.17

One memorial thanking for the posthumous funeral gift presented to the late master Huijian

6.18

The monk Changqing and others state: Humbly receiving Palace Commissioner Jiang Tinggui, who proclaimed the imperial condolences and bestowed twenty bolts of silk upon the deceased monk Huijian, kneeling to receive it we were ashamed and fearful, our grief and reverence mingled. The monk Changqing and others speak with sincere fear and sincere trepidation. Changqing and the others all received instruction under Huijian for many years; our practice of the Way has not been refined and arduous, yet above we extended the luster of our master. Humbly receiving Your Majesty's compassion, in your loving remembrance you made an exceptional gift, specially stooping down to our lowly rank. We humble monks cannot bear our sorrow and good fortune. Respectfully presenting this memorial, we state our thanks to be heard. The monk Changqing and others speak with sincere fear and sincere trepidation.

6.19

Twelfth day of the sixth month of the seventh year of Dali

6.20

Memorial submitted by Changqing and others, disciples of the late recitation monk Huijian of the Inner Arena

6.21

Three pieces: Song, Preface, Eulogy, and Memorial of Thanks on Climbing the Knife Ladder

6.22

On the twenty-eighth day of the tenth month in the wushen year, the third year of the Dali era of the Great Tang, an arena was established at Zhangjing Temple by imperial order. At that time, there was Śramaṇa Chonghui from Jiangdong, who climbed a ladder of knives, mounted a tree of swords, traversed cauldrons of boiling oil and hot coals, and sat on a couch of awls and swords. On this day, the hundred officials sped like shooting stars and myriad people gathered like clouds; there were none who were not startled in spirit and amazed at this unprecedented feat. Zhao bowed his head, stood on tiptoe, and composed this song:

6.23

A hundred feet vault into the void, leaning on a ladder of swords; / A thousand peaks stand steep and tall, reaching the rainbow in heaven. / Frost glistens in the fierce brazier, pure as the path of birds; / Longquan swords with gold rings engender rainbows. / Knives form the trees, swords make the mountain; / The true arhat flings his staff and roams among them. / Step by step he ascends, waving his hands and grasping the edge; / The Northern Dipper glistens brilliantly with radiant light.

6.24

The blades of the Ganjian swords split apart with emerald blazing luster,

6.25

Yet the Superior One treads them without considering it perilous.

6.26

The sharp blades and pointed points of the Moye swords can sever a blown hair,

6.27

Yet today he treads on them without finding it difficult.

6.28

White as snow, blue-green as ice, / Tortoiseshell and fish scales stacked in hundreds of layers. / The fourfold assembly watches, trembling in fear and awe, / While atop a peak of ten thousand fathoms they see a single monk. / The pattern of fine steel has the hue of a green snake; / Dense, towering, cold, and precipitous. / Unhurt and undamaged, he is difficult to fathom— / Only this is the power of liberation of great compassion! / From ancient times martial officials have boasted of their swordsmanship, / Dancing with it or brandishing it without ever missing, / Yet at the sight of this, their courage fails and their bodies shudder. / Who says swinging a lance can move the shining sun? / Li Guang from of old was renowned for a hundred battle exploits, / But how can that compare with witnessing supernatural powers today? / Purple robes fluttering, he flies into the empty sky; / Emerging and disappearing back and forth among naked blades! / Their jade-green light is somber and deep, / Yet how can that fine sharpness pierce him?

6.29

Eulogy on Chonghui Climbing the Knife Ladder (with Preface)

6.30

From Emperor Ming of the Han's auspicious dream when Kāśyapa Mātanga and Dharmaratna rent the net of false views in Luoyang, to the Qin ruler's doubts when Kumārajīva manifested the precious mirror inside the vase; from the slanderous words of Fu Yi when Falin composed the text of Defending the Right (Bian zheng lun), to Chonghui subjugating heterodoxy and manifesting spiritual power at Zhangjing Temple—
Such was the matter: a dark-hued wooden pillar soared a hundred feet high, bearing two levels above. Precious blades crisscrossed, golden bells encircled the four sides, eight conduits fed flaming braziers, and a pool was adorned with lotuses. Sharp seats and poisonous spikes were all set out within the balustrades. On this day, the heavens sparkled with added brilliance, no wind or dust arose, the frozen frost gathered and dispersed, and the sun's warmth was mild and gentle. At that time, a decree bestowed a Dharma robe, and an imperial commissioner personally monitored the spectacle. The Imperial Preceptor and chief ministers, the grand ranks of civil and military officials, allies from neighboring lands, Dharma companions who were dragons and elephants among men, Daoist priests in yellow caps, and red-bannered throngs—all classes joined the Dharma assembly. Scholars and commoners filled the thoroughfares, standing on tiptoe to gaze and behold. The sound of Buddhist chanting thundered forth, heard throughout the ten directions; incense from multiple precious censers rose like clouds and canopies. Thereupon, with his hands he broke the tree of swords, and with his feet he crushed the forest of blades. Fierce flames blazed with smoke, yet he walked to and fro amidst them. In the pool he spread his sitting mat, as if surging lotuses bloomed. Flocks of poisonous creatures bristled their barbs, yet he went everywhere picking them up and eating them. The monastic deportment was never compromised; rinsing his mouth, he scattered them away. The great assembly all felt veneration and sighed at what had never occurred before. Having personally witnessed this grand event, I am overcome with joy. Sharing in the moisture of the compassionate cloud, I rely upon and receive this splendid favor. The fiery torch is raised high, piercing the mountain of darkness, opening wide the turbid streams so that they return to the sea of the Dharma. The hymn says:

6.31

Great is the Fully Enlightened One, / His spiritual power is hard to fathom.
An auspicious dream moved Emperor Ming; / Kāśyapa Mātanga and Dharmaratna shed their radiance.
The flock of heterodox gave up their stubborn views, / Bowing their heads in refuge.
In the Qin palace was the precious mirror, / Manifested in the vase to dispel doubt.
Fu Yi spoke in mocking slander; / Defending the Right crushed it.
The śramaṇa Chonghui / Put an end to defamation and drove out wrongdoing.
Water, fire, blades, and poisons— / Facing the test, how marvelous!
How excellent, this grand event of a single lifetime, / Which will endure unchanged for a thousand ages to come!

6.32

One memorial expressing gratitude for the bestowal of a purple robe and offering congratulations

6.33

The śramaṇa Chonghui states: Yesterday, the Commissioner for Army Supervision conveyed the imperial decree ordering me to climb the tree of swords and cross the fire pit at Zhangjing Temple. I have also humbly received Palace Commissioner Gong Tingyu conveying the imperial decree to bestow one set of purple monastic robes. Chonghui has heard: Where there is a vow, it will not be in vain—Avalokiteśvara's compassion is swift. If one's thoughts are steadfast, there will be response—the Capable and Benevolent One's (Śākyamuni's) power is heroic. Thus, entering fire without being burned fulfills the certainty of efficacy; treading on blades without being cut presents a clear manifestation. Unexpectedly, the Great Sage added his awe-inspiring power, and heavenly grace was especially extended, so that contemplating the body as the Dharma realm, I incurred fierce flames without injury; lifting my feet in the place of enlightenment, I traversed frosty blades without flinching. Truly, I hope that pernicious vapours will be perpetually stilled and the ocean of karma forever cleared. Furthermore, monastics and laity rejoice together, and humans and gods have all witnessed it. This was moved by Your Majesty's supreme sincerity; how could it be achieved merely by the single-minded devotion of a humble monk? Having undeservedly received this extraordinary favor, I am overwhelmed with joy and rejoicing. I respectfully present this memorial to express my gratitude and bring it to Your Majesty's attention. The śramaṇa Chonghui, with true fear and true dread, respectfully speaks.

6.34

On the twenty-ninth day of the tenth month of the third year of Dali, Śramaṇa Chonghui of Anguo Temple submitted this memorial.

6.35

The Baoying Yuansheng Wenwu Emperor replied:

6.36

The Master has diligently practiced pure conduct, having long aligned with the True Vehicle. Sincerity brings spiritual communion, and the Buddhas extend their mindful protection. You cast your body upon blazing fire and placed your feet on sharp blades, strolling composedly as if on a couch. The entire capital gathered to watch, and the fourfold assembly took refuge. What has been bestowed is far from lavish; do not trouble yourself with expressing thanks.

6.37

One memorial (with imperial reply) submitted upon completing the imperial command to dust and wipe the stupas and images of the temples throughout the capital

6.38

The śramaṇa Huiguo states: I humbly received the imperial decree conveyed on the nineteenth day of the twelfth month of last year by Palace Commissioner Li Xiancheng, ordering this humble monk to make the rounds of the temples throughout the capital to take charge of affairs, sweeping and washing the halls and wiping the revered images, as well as directing the congregations of monks and nuns to burn incense, recite scriptures, make vows for the state, and reverently pray for blessings and protection. Respectfully, beginning on the twentieth day of last December at the Buddha's tooth relic site in Zhuangyan Temple, and concluding on the eighth day of this month, across one hundred and twelve temples including Xingshan Temple, the halls, stupas, Buddha's tooth relic sites, scriptural repositories, holy traces, and śarīra locations totaled nine hundred and fifty-seven sites. I respectfully proclaimed Your Majesty's sagacious sincerity and promoted the teaching of images: wiping away the dust of kalpas from the stones, like heavenly garments reducing them by six carats; washing the grime from the golden bodies, causing the thousand petals of their lotus seats to gleam. Ancient visages once again shone bright, and ancient scriptures were refreshed. Incense was burned within the halls, and fresh water was sprinkled across the courtyards. Relying on purity to make vows, spiritual responses arrived in communion. Now the four seas are calm, the three heavens have rolled back their mists, barbarian dust does not rise, and the rising sun dispels the dark. This humble monk also respectfully notes that the Sūtra of the Storehouse of Sundry Jewels and other scriptures say: 'If one sweeps the entire earth of Jambudvīpa, it is not as good as sweeping an area the size of a single palm of the hand around a Buddha stupa; [doing so], one will constantly become a wheel-turning sage king.' These all stem from the subtlety of Your Sagacious Majesty's sacred deliberations and the grand prominence of your faithful mind, purifying this Pure Land and broadening the Gate of Emptiness, granting great shelter to the disciples of Śākya and extending it to the ten thousand kingdoms. Blessings gather like clouds, and responses arrive like echoes. Hence, calamities and epidemics do not arise, and ominous mists naturally vanish. Concurring with the imperial mind with such swiftness, this humble monk, on account of this matter, together with master and disciple, has especially received imperial leadership, been loaned horses from the Imperial Stables, and been favored by the Inner Palace. The glorious mandate came from Heaven; I am humbled and fearful, at a loss as to what to do. Having rendered not even a grain of dust or a drop of water in service, how can I be equal to such pouring favors? Unable to bear the utmost reverent sincerity, I respectfully entrust this memorial to Palace Commissioner Yuan Yingjin to bring it to Your Majesty's attention. With true fear and true dread, I respectfully speak.

6.39

Eighth day of the first month of the twelfth year of Dali

6.40

Memorial submitted by Śramaṇa Huiguo, Inspector of the Two Practice Arenas and Concurrent Administrator of Daxingshan Temple

6.41

Rescript of the Baoying Yuansheng Wenwu Emperor:

6.42

The ācārya firmly upholds wondrous conduct, and your purity of cultivation has been widely heard. Therefore, I ordered you to make rounds throughout the pure realms to broaden supreme causes. The golden monasteries are once again purified, and the white curls of the jade ūrṇā radiate light. Where your reverent sincerity has reached is deeply worthy of praise. What was memorialized is noted.

6.43

One memorial (with imperial reply) presenting the account of meritorious works inside and outside the Mañjuśrī Pavilion at Xingshan Temple

6.44

In the Mañjuśrī State-Guarding Pavilion at Daxingshan Temple, by imperial decree, a plain painting of the Six-Syllable Mañjuśrī Bodhisattva in one set of nine figures, and on the walls inside and outside the pavilion, paintings of one hundred and four figures of the noble family of the Great Assembly of Mañjuśrī Bodhisattva, have now all been completed. Śramaṇa Huisheng states: I humbly reflect that His Majesty the Baoying Yuansheng Wenwu Emperor propagates the work of Mañjuśrī, practices the vows of Samantabhadra, and plants these supreme causes for the benefit of all living beings, revealing the true countenance of fruition virtue and displaying the true form of the physical body. Now the seven disasters and epidemics are extinguished, and ten thousand blessings are adorned. Without encountering imperial benevolence, by what means could we behold this? The red doors illuminated at dawn are like viewing the Solar Palace; the jade curl shining at night is like entering the Lunar Palace. Those who rejoice in it bear the power of the Sovereign; those who take refuge bring forth the mind of awakening. You have caused sentient beings as numerous as dust and sand to universally receive the Buddha's benevolence, while monastics and disciples of Śākya have particularly bathed in heavenly favor. How could merely chanting and reciting repay this? I only hope to rely on the Dharma power of Mañjuśrī to answer the vast favor above. On the auspicious occasion of Your Majesty's birthday, I respectfully entrust Palace Commissioner Li Xiancheng to present this memorial along with the plain paintings of the Great Sage's field of merit to bring them to Your Majesty's attention. Śramaṇa Huisheng, with true fear and true dread, respectfully speaks.

6.45

On the eighth day of the tenth month of the twelfth year of Dali, Śramaṇa Huisheng, Inspector of the Two Practice Arenas and Administrator of the Cloister, submitted this memorial.

6.46

Rescript of the Baoying Yuansheng Wenwu Emperor:

6.47

The Master has long been diligent in pure conduct, and your monastic discipline is meticulous and strict. Having long remained in the arena of practice, you uphold the lineage and apply your virtue. Your labor has been evident through months and years, and your blessings gather upon the family and state. For these immeasurable supreme causes, my praise and solace rest upon you.

6.48

One memorial expressing gratitude (with imperial reply) for the imperial gift of forty bolts of brocades, colored silks, fine plain silks, and light yellow silks

6.49

Śramaṇa Huisheng states: I humbly received the imperial decree conveyed by Palace Commissioner Li Xiancheng, specially bestowing forty bolts of brocades, colored silks, fine plain silks, and light yellow silks. Holding them while kneeling, I am ashamed and grateful, overwhelmed with joy and dread. I humbly reflect that His Majesty the Baoying Yuansheng Wenwu Emperor is the vow-body of all Buddhas and the esoteric practice of Samantabhadra; to propagate the great transformation, you condescend your imperial majesty, so that this humble monk has particularly received this extraordinary favor. However, the Dharma of Samantabhadra was originally the scripture transmitted by my late master, and is furthermore the Path entrusted to Your Majesty. From afar, this humble monk is moved by the late master's bequeathed teachings, and looking up, I am ashamed before the holy ruler's profound favor. Emulating the ancients' offering of humble water dropwort, I present this trickle to convey my feelings to Your Majesty's sagacious mind. I did not anticipate that heavenly grace and favored gifts would be so excessive. I have immediately used what was bestowed to present as an offering before my late master's shadow pagoda of his bequeathed body, reciting for the state and making vows of utmost sincerity across the various practice arenas, hoping to rely on the Buddha's power to perpetually preserve the Imperial House. Unable to bear the utmost gratitude, I respectfully entrust Palace Commissioner Li Xiancheng to present this memorial of thanks and bring it to Your Majesty's attention. Śramaṇa Huisheng, with true joy and true congratulations, respectfully speaks.

6.50

Sixth day of the sixth month of the thirteenth year of Dali

6.51

Memorial submitted by Śramaṇa Huisheng, Inspector of the Two Practice Arenas and Administrator of the Cloister at Daxingshan Temple

6.52

Rescript of the Baoying Yuansheng Wenwu Emperor:

6.53

The secret store of all Buddhas was received and maintained by the late master, and disseminated to humans and gods; it is truly the essential requirement of the Dharma. A slight reward was given to assist in your cultivation. What was thanked for is noted.

6.54

One edict from Emperor Suzong commanding Tripitaka Master [Amoghavajra's] disciple Huirou to enter the Inner Practice Arena to perform recitations

6.55

By imperial decree: Order the personnel of the Yintai Gate to summon the four disciples of Tripitaka Master Amoghavajra—Huirou, Guṇa, Huixiao, and Huiyue—to enter the palace. Provide Flying Dragon horses for the Tripitaka Master to set up and adorn the practice arena for recitation.

6.56

On the twenty-sixth day of the twelfth month of the second year of Zhide, proclaimed by Ranked Official Yan Ruzhang.

6.57

One edict by imperial grace commanding the Tripitaka Master's disciple monk Huixiao to perform recitations for the state

6.58

By imperial decree to the monk Huixiao and other disciples of Tripitaka Master Amoghavajra: Recently, while among the rebels, you maintained steadfast mindfulness and refined sincerity, secretly cultivating merit for Us. Now that the empire has been recovered, it is all an echo of the Buddha's power. From now on, you must redouble your diligence and recite on Our behalf; do not become remiss in your diligence simply because you have already attained ordination.

6.59

On the eighteenth day of the first month of the third year of Zhide, proclaimed by General Duan Qiaofu.

6.60

One edict by imperial favor of Emperor Daizong ordering Ximing Temple to provide gruel, meals, and mounts for travels

6.61

By imperial decree to the monk Huixiao of Ximing Temple: Since you cultivate merit for Us, while residing in the temple, let the gruel and meals of the two times of day, as well as mounts and riding animals for entering, leaving, coming, and going, all be provided according to regular practice, without any deficiency.

6.62

On the twenty-fifth day of the eighth month of the sixth year of Dali, proclaimed by High-Ranked Official Ma Fengcheng.

6.63

One memorial (with imperial reply) expressing gratitude upon taking leave to go to Mount Wutai to cultivate merit by imperial favor

6.64

The śramaṇa Huixiao states: On the tenth day of this month, I personally received the imperial command ordering me to proceed to Mount Wutai to inspect the colors and mudrās of the revered images at the Great Sage Jin'ge Temple, to halt work by the ninth month and return to the imperial court, and to cultivate merit for Your Majesty's imperial birthday. Since leaving home to pursue the Way at the age of twenty, Huixiao has attended upon the presence of the Upādhyāya, the Tripitaka Master of Vast Wisdom, for more than thirty years, personally receiving the instructions of the mantras of the five divisions. Never departing from his side, I have been able to behold the Heavenly Countenance, and have constantly cultivated merit in the Han暉, Yanying, and Changsheng Halls. My only regret is that I could not be sufficiently sincere, so that residual evils have not yet been quelled. Yet imperial benevolence has specially descended, sending me on this distant mission and further bestowing thirty bolts of silk, relay post mounts, public provisions, and temple mounts. What great fortune for this humble monk to repeatedly bathe in heavenly favor! With true joy and true delight, I am overwhelmed with gratitude. I shall depart this very day, riding swift steeds, looking toward Jin'ge Temple as if it were not far away; departing in spring and returning in autumn, how could paying audience at the Purple Palace be distant? Unable to bear the utmost attachment to your favor and fearful trembling, I respectfully entrust the Supervisory Commissioner and Ranked Official Wei Mingxiu to present this memorial to express my gratitude and bring it to Your Majesty's attention. The śramaṇa Huixiao, with true fear and true dread, respectfully speaks.

6.65

Nineteenth day of the third month of the twelfth year of Dali

6.66

Memorial submitted by Śramaṇa Huixiao of Ximing Temple, Commissioner for Cultivating Merit at Mount Wutai

6.67

Rescript of the Baoying Yuansheng Wenwu Emperor:

6.68

The Master relies on the Gate of Śākya and widely spreads the holy teaching. Tracing forms and images, you are about to set out for the Sacred Mountain. The gifts bestowed are not many; do not trouble yourself with expressing thanks.

6.69

One memorial expressing gratitude (with imperial reply) for the imperial command ordering me to cultivate merit together with Huilang

6.70

The śramaṇa Huixiao states: On the eleventh day of the third month past, I received in person the imperial instruction ordering me to perform merit on Mount Wutai. After the midday meal on the nineteenth day of the seventh month, together with the palace commissioner Li Tongzhi and others, numbering over seventy people, carrying incense and fire, we went on pilgrimage. The fire we were carrying could not reach the terrace, and I rebuked myself earnestly in my heart, wondering on what basis we could make our supplication. When we reached the mountain peak, the boy Biange suddenly saw wet ashes upon a rock, and from them we obtained a tiny spark. I humbly reflect that Your Majesty's ninefold palace extends its influence from afar, so that holy fire was born from wet ashes. As we burned incense and earnestly prayed, ten thousand forms of the Bodhisattva appeared, brilliant and radiant, with marks and signs distinct, hanging motionless and filling the sky, not scattering until nightfall. Moreover, together with the supervising commissioner Wei Mingxiu and others, I arrived at this terrace to pray for the state. As we made our vows, bodily auras and circular nimbi of bodhisattvas and other manifestations appeared in succession twenty-seven times. Your Majesty's holy resonance works secretly, and the Bodhisattva repeatedly manifests; the reverence shown to Mount Wutai has brought more than one miraculous omen. What good fortune has this humble monk to have witnessed these holy traces! I cannot bear the height of my gratitude and celebration. On the tenth day of this month, I received the heavenly grace commanding me to cultivate merit together with Huilang on each occasion. Your extraordinary favor shines down especially, allowing me to re-enter the golden gates and precious halls for practice and recitation; I cannot bear my trembling awe. I respectfully entrust this memorial to the palace commissioner Li Xiancheng to present my thanks for Your hearing. The śramaṇa Huixiao speaks with true joy and true delight.

6.71

Seventeenth day of the eleventh month of the thirteenth year of Dali.

6.72

Presented by the Commissioner for Cultivating Merit on Mount Wutai, the śramaṇa Huixiao of Ximing Temple.

6.73

Endorsement by the Baoying Yuansheng Wenwu Emperor:

6.74

"The master diligently applies himself to pure conduct, having long remained at Qingliang. With expansive karmic deeds and perfected precepts, focused will and complete merit, you jointly maintain purification and elevate blessings for the nation. What you have thanked us for is noted."

6.75

One Memorial Presenting Kiṁśuka Jewels on New Year's Day (with reply)

6.76

The śramaṇa Huixiao states: Having humbly received the gracious decree ordering me to inspect and cultivate merit on Mount Wutai and pray for blessings for the state, I reached the South Terrace. To the south there is a mountain; previously, when an Indian monk made a pilgrimage there, he said that this mountain possesses kiṁśuka jewels, and that anyone who ascends it with a greedy mind will encounter wind and thunder. Huixiao burned incense, made supplications, and ascended this mountain. There was a small stone cavern several feet square containing water the color of vermilion. In it, I obtained thirty pieces of jewels whose color resembles amber. Huixiao has heard that when an enlightened ruler stimulates resonance, the earth does not conceal its treasures. I humbly reflect that Your Majesty covers and supports like heaven and earth, illuminating like the sun and moon; moreover, You have erected the Golden Pavilion beneath the peak and constructed the Jade Flower Pavilion upon the crags. This humble monk, bearing Your command, ascended that famous mountain, burned incense, and showed sincerity, so that neither lightning nor rain arose, and I consequently obtained these jewels. Furthermore, according to the Nirvāṇa Sūtra, if one treads upon a single stone of Mount Wutai, one will not fall into evil destinies for seven kalpas thereafter. How much more so for rare treasures of an age! Today, on this day when all things are renewed and this time when the ninefold palace receives blessings, I respectfully entrust this memorial with the jewels to the palace commissioner Li Xiancheng to present for Your hearing. The śramaṇa Huixiao speaks with true fear and leaping joy.

6.77

First day of the first month of the thirteenth year of Dali.

6.78

Presented by the Commissioner for Cultivating Merit on Mount Wutai, the śramaṇa Huixiao of Ximing Temple.

6.79

Endorsement by the Baoying Yuansheng Wenwu Emperor:

6.80

"The master sought the Way on the numinous mountain and diligently cultivated correct awakening. In presenting these extraordinary stones, you have demonstrated diligent sincerity. What you have submitted is noted."

6.81

One Imperial Letter Bestowed on the Thirteenth Day of the Eighth Month (at that time at Jinge Temple on Mount Wutai)

6.82

"Imperial decree to Ācārya Huixiao: We are dispatching the palace commissioner Yang Shande to proceed there to manage the cultivation of merit. The master diligently applies himself to meditation and recitation, thereby conferring blessings upon the realm. In the autumn coolness, is the master peaceful and well? In sending this letter, I have little else to say. Thirteenth day."

6.83

One Memorial Presenting the Performance of Homa Merit on Mount Wutai (with reply)

6.84

The śramaṇa Huixiao states: On the tenth day of the fourth month of this year, the palace commissioner Wei Mingxiu conveyed the imperial decree ordering this humble monk to proceed to the Great Holy Jinge Baoying Zhenguo Temple on Mount Wutai to cultivate homa merit. With pious and simple sincerity, Huixiao fulfilled the holy will and performed the aforementioned merit, proclaiming Mañjuśrī's past vows and beseeching the late master's unseen power. Distinctly there was verification; responses arrived like echoes and shadows. Consequently, the fire was bright and moist, and no smoke arose, differing from ordinary days and truly manifesting clarity and fairness. This is an omen of peace and tranquility across China, and proof that the dust of war has ceased. All this is because Your Majesty's supreme Way moves in secret and Your virtue accords with Heaven, causing the hundred spirits to offer blessings and the myriad commoners to rejoice in heart, evil disasters to be eradicated forever, and auspicious celebrations to gather daily. Huixiao, unworthily counted among the ranks of the monastics, respectfully received the enlightened teaching; fearing to dishonor the holy decree, I have been blessed with these fortunate and auspicious omens, and cannot bear the height of my clapping and rejoicing. I respectfully entrust this memorial to the palace commissioner Wei Mingxiu for Your hearing. The śramaṇa Huixiao speaks with true joy and true delight.

6.85

Eighteenth day of the twelfth month of the thirteenth year of Dali.

6.86

Presented by the śramaṇa Huixiao of Ximing Temple.

6.87

Endorsement by the Baoying Yuansheng Wenwu Emperor:

6.88

"The great holy Mañjuśrī protects the numinous mountain. Through the master's devout sincerity, divine favors were clearly elicited. Extreme sincerity is bound to receive response; this is deeply praiseworthy. What you have celebrated is noted."

6.89

One Imperial Edict Ordering the Chief Karmadāna of Daxingshan Temple, Fagao, to Continue to Administer Affairs as Before (with the commissioner's official dispatch)

6.90

"In accordance with the imperial decree addressed to Li Yuancong: Fagao, Chief Karmadāna of Xingshan Temple, should be ordered to immediately take charge of the affairs of Chief Karmadāna as before."

6.91

Official dispatch of the seventeenth day of the fourth month of the tenth year of Dali from the High-Ranking Palace Eunuch Li Xiancheng, who announced the imperial edict as Commissioner for the Cultivation of Merit in the Temples and Monasteries of the Capital:

6.92

To: Fagao, Chief Karmadāna of Xingshan Temple.

6.93

The dispatch notes that an imperial decree was cited as above; as no separate dispatches have yet been issued by the competent authorities for implementation, this edict is hereby recorded and dispatched to the monk Fagao. Hence this dispatch.

6.94

Dispatched on the seventeenth day of the fourth month of the tenth year of Dali.

6.95

By Commissioner, Opening the Office with Equal Honors to the Three Excellencies, concurrently Director of the Right Dragon-Martial Army, Li Cong.

6.96

One Memorial Thanking the Imperial Decree Ordering Dharma Master Youze to Lecture at Xingshan Temple (with reply)

6.97

The śramaṇa Fagao and others state: We humbly received the imperial decree of the fourth day of this month ordering Dharma Master Youze of Zhangjing Temple to lecture on the Suvarṇaprabhāsa Sūtra at our temple. Imperial favors fall upon our countenances; the royal edicts overflow. The Buddhist rites are arranged in due season; the sound of Dharma is formally proclaimed. How can our trivial dust be of any assistance? We tremble in awe, finding no place to stand. We humbly reflect that Your Majesty, the Baoying Yuansheng Wenwu Emperor, governs the world with benevolent transformation and secretly upholds the Dharma. Regarding the eastward flow [of the teachings], You have turned Your gaze southward. Moreover, this temple was founded during the Sui dynasty nearly two hundred years ago; although notable monks have resided here generation after generation, such imperial proclamations have never been heard of before. Now, the decree descends from heaven, and people spring forth from the earth. Though the sūtra remains as of old, the commentary is truly renewed. Monks and nuns are summoned and gallop forward; laymen and laywomen are sought and gather in herds. These are all the wondrous power of the buddhas and the superior conditions of this sūtra, fulfilling Your Majesty's mind of external protection and bringing about the rare good fortune of us monks. We certainly hope it will aid Your sacred reign, enhance the majesty of the state, bring grain harvests in times of peace, and gather all sentient beings into the realm of longevity. We cannot bear the height of our dancing and rejoicing. We respectfully present this memorial to offer our thanks for Your hearing. The śramaṇa Fagao and others speak with true joy and true delight.

6.98

Nineteenth day of the fourth month of the thirteenth year of Dali.

6.99

Presented by the Chief Karmadāna of Daxingshan Temple, the śramaṇa Fagao, and others.

6.100

Endorsement by the Baoying Yuansheng Wenwu Emperor:

6.101

"Dharma Master Youze has cultivated wondrous practice with refinement. He opens the gates of expedient means and expounds the profound meaning of the great Dharma, propagating the sacred teaching to widen superior causes, fulfilling the loyalty of worthy ministers, and elucidating the subtle and profound tenets, so that all living beings may partake of great blessings. What you have thanked us for is noted."

6.102

One Memorial Thanking the Imperial Edict Appointing the Śramaṇa Huilang as Sthavira of Xingshan Temple (with reply)

6.103

The śramaṇa Fagao and others state: We humbly received the imperial decree of the fourteenth day of this month appointing Bhadanta Huilang as Sthavira of the great temple. The heavenly light shines down; majesty and dignity are upon our countenances. The Saṅgha has its man, and the semblance teaching will long endure. Fagao and the others have heard that what the people desire, Heaven is bound to grant; if the Way is preserved, the king indeed has power. We humbly reflect that Your Majesty, the Baoying Yuansheng Wenwu Emperor, turns the golden wheel in accord with destiny, harmonizes the jade seasons, promotes external protection from Your sacred heart, and sends down the compassionate moisture of causeless grace. Summoned from the inner palace, his recitations remain undisturbed; the temple being close to the imperial avenue, he is entrusted with its abbacy without interruption. We cannot bear the height of our celebration and joy. We respectfully entrust this memorial to the Palace Commissioner for Merit Li Xiancheng to express our thanks for Your hearing. The śramaṇa Fagao and others speak with true joy and true delight.

6.104

Fifteenth day of the fourth month of the thirteenth year of Dali.

6.105

Presented by the Chief Karmadāna of Daxingshan Temple, the śramaṇa Fagao, and others.

6.106

Endorsement by the Baoying Yuansheng Wenwu Emperor:

6.107

"You masters maintain purity in the Brahmic grove and devote yourselves to meditation and recitation. Where caityas assemble, leaders must be chosen. Huilang is reverent and diligent, truly fulfilling the public selection. Entrusting him with general charge of temple affairs can indeed be called finding the right man. What you have thanked us for is noted."

6.108

Stele of the Master's Own Cloister

6.109

Title Heading of the Stele of the Tang Dynasty Daxingshan Temple Tripitaka Master and Imperial Preceptor of Great Eloquence, Rectitude, and Vast Wisdom

6.110

Stele Inscription (with preface) for the Late Bhadanta, the Tripitaka Master and Upādhyāya of Great Eloquence, Rectitude, and Vast Wisdom of Daxingshan Temple of the Tang Dynasty

6.111

Composed by Yan Ying, Grand Master for Closing Court of the Silver and Blue Ribbon, Censor-in-Chief, Upper Pillar of the State, and Founding Duke of Fengyi District.

6.112

Calligraphy by Xu Huo, Grand Master for Closing Court of the Silver and Blue Ribbon, Grand Mentor to the Prince of Peng, Upper Pillar of the State, and Founding Duke of Kuaiji Commandery.

6.113

The Upādhyāya’s taboo name was Bukong (Amoghavajra). He was a man of the Western Regions. Since his clan and lineage are not known in the Central Flowery Land, they are not recorded. Xuanzong, illuminatingly perceiving his supreme Way, specially held him in high esteem and veneration. Up through the three courts of Suzong and Daizong, he served as Abhiṣeka Imperial Preceptor in all of them, illuminating and assisting the Supreme Sovereigns with profound words and virtuous auspices. In the beginning of Daizong’s reign, [the Emperor] praised and distinguished him with [the titles of] Specially Advanced and Grand Chamberlain of the Court of Imperial Regalia. When he manifested illness and did not rise, [the Emperor] again approached his bedchamber to add the titles of Specially Promoted with Equal Ceremonial to the Three Excellencies and Duke of the State of Su. He firmly declined all of them, but this was not granted; instead, he was specially granted the Dharma title of Tripitaka Master of Vast Wisdom. On the guiwei day of the sixth month in the summer of the ninth year of the Da-li era (774), he passed away at Daxingshan Temple in the capital. For his sake, Daizong suspended court audiences for three days, bestowed upon him the posthumous title of Minister of Works, and gave him the posthumous honorific title of Tripitaka Master and Upādhyāya of Great Eloquence, Rectitude, and Vast Wisdom. At the time of the cremation, an edict was issued dispatching a Palace Attendant to deliver a sacrificial invocation and conduct a farewell libation, expressing reverence as though he were present. The imperial words were deeply poignant, the offerings were exquisite and fragrant, the honors surpassed all his contemporaries, and his renown was beyond compare. In the ninth month of that year, an edict ordered that a pagoda be erected with his śarīra within the monastery grounds of his former residence. The Upādhyāya was naturally intelligent and brilliant, and was broadly versed in the essential import of the myriad dharmas of former Buddhas. Standing solitary within the Buddhist community, he was vast and peerless. If we examine the standards of the meanings of words in mantras and the rituals of mounting the altar for abhiṣeka, the speed with which one instantly attains Buddhahood and the wonder with which blessings are accumulated in response to sound are as magnificent and vast as Heaven, as universal and deep as the Earth; they are certainly not something that we late-coming students can fully detail. I only dare to summarize the general outline from what I have seen. Formerly, Vajrasattva personally received the meaning of the supreme vehicle of Yoga before Vairocana Buddha. Several centuries later, it was transmitted to Nāgārjuna Bodhisattva. Several centuries later, Nāgārjuna transmitted it to Nāgabodhi Ācārya. Nāgabodhi transmitted it to Vajrabodhi Ācārya. Vajrabodhi came east and transmitted it to the Upādhyāya. The Upādhyāya further journeyed west to countries such as India and Siṁhala, approached Nāgabodhi Ācārya, and broadly explored the teachings of the eighteen assemblies. As the teaching and transformation were handed down in succession, from Vairocana Tathāgata down to the Upādhyāya, there were six generations in all. Whenever he purified himself and observed the precepts, remaining in the palace to greet auspicious vapors, he answered all who mounted [the dais] to offer salutations, and the response of blessings was clear and distinct. Like the trees of the palace that never speak, [his hidden deeds] cannot all be recorded. In a narrow lane in the Western Regions, when a mad elephant was charging, he looked upon it with eyes of compassion; before he could even turn on his heel, the elephant submitted and did not rise. Halfway across the Southern Sea, when the Tianwu monster stirred up terrifying waves, he confronted it with the power of meditative concentration; before the shadow on the sundial moved, the sea was calm and without waves. At his birth, his mother had the auspicious sign of a white curl of light illuminating and shining; at his death, the monastery experienced the marvel of the pond's water drying up. He had fifty monastic years and lived to seventy. From the time of his youth to the evening of his life, he constantly adorned the offering implements, sat in the arena of the Way, bathed with orchid water, burned incense, and entered into the knowledge and vision of the Buddha. For more than fifty years, day and night, through cold and heat, he never for a single instant showed any sign of vacillation, indolence, or weariness. His superiority over ordinary people was far and remote—it was just like this. Among the later students who ascended his hall and chanted and expounded, those who possessed the Dharma were more than one; yet the monk Huilang received the prophecy of succession, attained the purport of the transmission of the lamp, continued to illuminate the Buddha-sun, and succeeded the six as the seventh. How consummate indeed! Alas, the Dharma-pillar has forever fallen. Wishing to record his original conduct, he entrusted me to engrave this monumental inscription. In the past I received his subtle words; today I behold his armrest and staff. His radiant visage is remote; the courtyard of his altar is desolate and mournful. Composing the inscription to shine forth, how could this minor fellow decline? The inscription says:

6.114

Alas, O Great Being, / You served our three imperial courts! / In the Way, you were the Emperor's Master; / In official rank, you had ceremonial equal to the Excellencies. / Formerly at Mount Guangcheng, / The Yellow Emperor followed the prevailing wind. / After more than three thousand years, / There was once again Duke Su! / The supreme vehicle of Yoga, / The secret tally of true words— / Bestowed and received through six generations, / The lamp was transmitted in unbroken succession. / The narrator has set this down, / Resplendently arranged in orderly sequence. / On land, you subdued the mad elephant; / On water, you calmed the Tianwu monster. / With a compassionate heart you quelled violence; / With the power of wisdom you subdued the ignorant. / Quietly responding and penetrating— / How could that be fathomed? / The dream of libations between the two pillars came to pass; / The twin śāla trees changed color. / With the rank of Minister of Works he was favored at the end; / The title of Rectitude and Correctness proclaimed his virtue. / The heavenly envoy offered the farewell sacrifice; / The sovereign's heart was sorrowful and grieved. / An edict ordered the erection of a precious pagoda / In the corner of his former courtyard. / Below are interred the śarīra; / Above is adorned the stupa. / Traces diverge in arising and ceasing, / But the Dharma is free from being and non-being. / Carving this stone with verses, / May it be transmitted to the great metropolis!

6.115

Erected on the jisi day, the fifteenth day of the second month whose first day was yimao, in the xinyou year, the second year of the Jianzhong era (December 5, 781).

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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