諸經要集 3.45

3.45

The author states: When men or women have completed what they came to cultivate and wish to leave the monastery, they should make three prostrations before the Buddha's stūpa, circumambulate three times clockwise with joined palms, chant praises, and then walk backward out of the monastery gate, making another prostration. If they see monks, if the assembly is small, they should bow three times to each; if the monks are numerous, they should make three prostrations to take leave collectively. Therefore, the Samantapāsādikā states: "When paying homage to the Buddha, one should circumambulate three times, bow three times, pay homage to the four quarters, join the ten fingers, raise the hands to the crown of the head, and walk backward to leave. When the Tathāgata is completely out of sight, make another prostration, turn forward, and leave." (This signifies yearning for the Triratna and repeatedly repaying their kindness.) In general, going to a monastery is to establish the conditions for transcending the world. Building a monastery opens the cause for the pure land; making offerings to the monks provides the path for liberation. Therefore, one should reflect on one's base nature as an impure worldly person; when entering the pure sanctuary of a saṅghārāma, one must fear that one's actions might violate the Dharma's regulations. When returning home, give a small donation to redeem oneself, symbolizing that the saṅgha offers the gift of Dharma while the laity offers material generosity. When actions are appropriate, both inside and outside will benefit.