大唐內典錄 10.8

10.8

Shi Sengyou compiled the Collection of the Tripiṭaka in twelve fascicles. The preface to its Miscellaneous Records says: When the wondrous spring releases its moisture, ten thousand streams branch forth; when the dark root nurtures its sprout, a thousand branches assemble like clouds. Why is this? Because when the root is great, the branches flourish, and when the foundation is far-reaching, the line continues long. Since the sacred scriptures were supernaturally conveyed, excelling secular classics, from the Han down to the Liang, generations have witnessed wise and illustrious figures. Though some wore black robes and others plain attire, their different paths led to the same destination. As for lectures, discussions, panegyrics, and analyses, they grew ever more refined with each generation; commentaries and treatises became increasingly meticulous as each person vied to polish them. Thus the richness of records and treatises filled pavilions and rooms; the abundance of writings and prefaces laden carriages and covered wagon poles. Emperor Ming of the Song set his mind on the pure realm and repeatedly tasted the profound flavour. He thereupon ordered Secretariat Drafter Lu Cheng to compile and record a collection of Dharma texts. Lu was broadly learned and well-informed, embracing all the various texts; he appraised titles and categories, dividing them according to meaning. In all, there were sixteen cases and one hundred and three fascicles, entitled Continuation of Treatises on the Dharma (Xu fa lun). His examination of ancient and modern works was already complete. Though not primary sūtras, they assist the transformation of the Way, and may be called the vanguard of the sacred scriptures and the guards of the Dharma gate, sufficient to illuminate past lineages and guide future students. Therefore, I append it to the end of the Collection of the Tripiṭaka to broaden the reading of its branch leaves. — Preface to the Table of Contents of the Continuation of Treatises on the Dharma, compiled by Secretariat Drafter Lu Cheng by imperial order of Emperor Ming of the Song.