大宋僧史略 1.46

1.46

Since the Dharma was transmitted eastward, affairs were mostly rudimentary and unrefined. Thus the Gaoseng zhuan states: "Even when vegetarian feasts and repentance liturgies were established, they resembled sacrificial offerings." During the Wei and Jin periods, monks all sat on spread grass to eat; in their deportment of rising and sitting, as well as in their chanting and converting, there were virtually no regulations. Coming down to the Eastern Jin, there was Dharma Master Dao'an of the Former Qin. His insightful understanding was innate; he first investigated the sūtras and vinaya, formulating ceremonies for attending invitations, monastic blessings, hymns, veneration, recollecting the Buddha, and so forth. In all there were three models, the first being the offering of incense and setting the seats. In the chapter on "Establishing Rules for Attending Invitations," Vinaya Master Daoxuan clearly elucidated the standards. If those of round-shaven heads do not consult them, incurring the ridicule of being like broken grain, they bring it upon themselves—how lamentable! Recently I heard that a merchant from the Western River made a vegetarian feast to fulfil a vow. When he first presented the written statement, several monks were unable to read it and were driven away by the merchant. How laughable! Later generations hearing of this ought to study diligently late into the night: first, so as not to receive alms in vain; second, to shelter the assembly of monks; and third, to spread their fame to all four quarters.