貞元新定釋教目錄 24.3

24.3

Those that are "translations without extant texts" refers to texts of the Tripiṭaka teachings and anthologies and biographies of sages and saints whose titles survive but whose texts are missing. Since the sacred teachings moved eastward, nearly a thousand years have passed. Substance and style have frequently changed, and dynastic bells and cauldrons have repeatedly shifted. Added to this was Emperor Wu of the Zhou's decline and destruction, wherein the monastic order was wiped out, causing the lamp of the Dharma to hide its brilliance and the sun of wisdom to conceal its light. Essential texts of the Tripiṭaka have largely been scattered and lost. Some were recently translated in the Eastern Capital and have not reached the Western Capital; some were rare upon their first production, so searching for them has yielded nothing. How could one hear of their profound mysteries when merely reading their empty titles? Straining the neck in longing is wearying, and beating the breast in grief is of no avail! Now, having investigated various catalogues, we fully record those that have been left behind and lost, in the hope that many worthy individuals will join in searching and inquiring after them.