法苑珠林 55.46

55.46

Would one who embodies the ultimate path of benevolence and sagacity ever utter deceptive and deceitful words? Reflecting on this in tranquility, faith grows all the firmer. As for building a monastery, its merit is deeper than the vast ocean; ordaining a monk, its blessings are heavier than the high peaks. This is what the King of the Dharma explicitly stated, and what the Great Beings earnestly encouraged. If someone establishes these, it increases celebration and benefits the state; is this not great? If someone reveres them, it engenders goodness and benefits the people; is this not broad? If there is a small loss but a great gain, is this not what the state ought to exalt? If there is a small gain but a great loss, is this not what the people ought to avoid? A minister who lacks such prudence toward his lord is not a loyal minister; a son who lacks such consideration for his parents is not a filial son.”