貞元新定釋教目錄 12.5

12.5

手勅答書略云。朕學淺心拙在物猶迷。況佛教幽微豈能仰測。請為經題非己所聞。其雜撰西域記者當自披覽。又再三表請方蒙允許。遂謂駙馬都尉高履行曰。卿前請朕為父作碑。今氣力不如昔願作功德。為法師作序不能作碑。卿知之。

The rescript written in the imperial hand replied in outline: "Our learning is shallow and Our mind simple; We remain confused even regarding mundane affairs. How much more so concerning the profound and subtle Buddhist teachings—how could We presumptuously fathom them? Your request for a preface to the scriptures is something beyond Our competence. As for the miscellaneous compilation, the Xiyu ji, We shall peruse it Ourselves." Only after repeated memorials was imperial consent granted. The Emperor then addressed the Prince Consort Commandant Gao Lüxing, saying: "You previously requested that We compose a stele inscription for your father. Now Our vitality is not what it once was, and We wish to cultivate merit. We can compose a preface for the Dharma Master, but We cannot compose a stele inscription. You should understand this."