出三藏記集 10.8

10.8

Formerly, during the Buddha's time, the scriptures and teachings were not recorded in writing. The words came from the Venerable One's mouth, and the disciples recited and practiced them. The phrasing was concise yet the meanings were broad; the written records were scarce yet wondrously deep. Once the Buddha entered nirvāṇa, the subtle words ceased forever, like the waters of a valley drying up or the sun and moon falling. Thereupon, the worthy ones together tasked Ānanda with expounding what he had heard, producing twelve divisions of sūtras. Thereafter, the eminent each composed commentaries and explanations, explaining the chapters, phrases, and origins, sometimes by the dozens. There was a bodhisattva from Parthia whose name was Shigao. Magnanimous and devoted to antiquity, there was no sūtra he did not master. Pitying the ignorant commoners, he showed them a bridge. Thereupon, he proclaimed the Buddha's Dharma in the Han land, translating several million words in total, explaining some orally and transmitting some in writing. Only concerning the Śrāmaṇera's Ten Wisdoms had a profound explanation not been heard. Now, ten is the culmination of numbers, and wisdom is the foundation of the Path. Without numbers, things are not determined; without the Path, practices cannot bring deliverance. Its text is splendid, and its utility is tireless; broadly it encompasses the three realms, while closely it contemplates one's own body. I, Diao, despite my lack of talent, had the fortune to join the ranks of the worthy. Yet my learning has not become comprehensive, nor has my conduct attained the four standards. Early on I met with misfortune and caused sorrow to my preceptor; for long I lacked the benevolent guidance of family instruction. In deep sorrow and isolation, my mind had nothing to latch upon. Thereupon, forgetting to eat in my ardent resolve, taking advantage of leisure to ponder through it, I composed the Chapter-and-Phrase Commentary on the Ten Wisdoms, not daring to rely on my own authority but drawing on analogies from the sūtras—above, to reach the virtue of the Path; below, to comfort my own mind. For sages of profound and vast aspirations, it is unworthy of attention; but for those who have not yet entered the inner chamber, it may open their eyes.