代宗朝贈司空大辨正廣智三藏和上表制集 6.5

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.