宗四分比丘隨門要略行儀 1.43

1.43

Therefore, the Book of Fives in the Ekottarika-āgama (states): 'The Buddha addressed the bhikṣus: When a bhikṣu goes into the saṅgha, he should first have five dharmas: First, he should have a mind of loving-kindness (cultivating loving-kindness and pitying beings, staying free from the defilement of anger, because it benefits self and others). Second, he should humble himself as if wiping dust (with a humble mind and low intent, subduing pride, conceding righteousness to others and taking faults upon himself). Third, he should know well when to sit and rise; if he sees a sthavira, he should not sit at ease; if he sees a junior, he should not stand up (knowing well his own position, movement and rest conforming to propriety, staying free from ordinary flattery and arrogance, conforming to the mind of the sages). Fourth, when he goes into the saṅgha, he does not engage in miscellaneous talk discussing worldly affairs; either he speaks the Dharma himself, or he requests someone to speak the Dharma (miscellaneous talk and worldly words discard the path and oppose principle; at such times, one should value the assembly, hold caution in mind, and extinguish them; however, matters that benefit beings and support the true Dharma in principle ought to be proclaimed and upheld, either by oneself or by another). Fifth, if he sees improper matters in the saṅgha and his mind cannot bear them with equanimity, he should remain silent. Why? For fear of division in the saṅgha (perhaps lacking good companions, or his words not being recognized by others; if he were to manage it, it might result in ruin, or even lead to saṅghabheda; one must be silent to quiet all disputes and disruptions).' Examining the rise and decline of the Dharma, it truly lies with people. In this brief outline, the principles may be grasped as in the text. As for the rest of the behavioral marks, they are extensive as in the text. May you respectfully receive the mind of the sages and take heed of these clear admonitions.