得道梯橙錫杖經 1.23

1.23

The method of holding this staff is to hold heaven and flank earth, placing it under the left armpit, hooking it with the little finger; keep both ends level, not letting one be higher or lower. When sounding it, sound it continuously, not letting the sound break off; its sound should be even, fine, and harmonious, always remaining as at first. If at first there was no sound, do not let there be sound throughout the entire walking session; if at first there was sound, always maintain the sound throughout the entire walking session. Also keep the coarseness and fineness uniform, not permitting it to be sometimes coarse and sometimes fine. A monk places it at the left foot; a nun places it at the right foot; it must not touch the ground. If the donor does not come out, visit as few as three houses and at most seven houses; if nothing is received, one is not permitted to visit more; exceeding this is not the practice of a practitioner. If food is obtained within the limit, take the staff and hang it upon a tree, not letting it touch the ground. If there is no tree and it touches the ground, place it on a level spot, not letting it tilt. When sleeping, place the staff in line with the body, setting it behind the bed, precisely even with the body, not letting it stick forward or backward. When walking along the road or resting, the head should always face the sun, not letting it be upside down or turned away. Carrying this staff is just carrying the Buddha's body; the myriad practices are all contained within it, which is called holding heaven and flanking earth.