I once studied the Tiantai teachings under the great Master Bai Song. His understanding of the core meaning of the *Shurangama Sutra* was especially profound. In the year Renwu of the Ming Dynasty (1582), the Master gave a lecture on this sutra at Shengshui Temple in Taizhou. One day, as I entered his chamber, it was empty of others. I knelt with palms together and asked him about the principle of the Great Samadhi. The Master simply stared around the room in silence without a word. In that moment, I experienced a great awakening. Afterward, I practiced based on this insight for a long time.

By the year Dinghai (1587), I began writing the four volumes of *Profound Meaning* at the Youxi Monastery in Taizhou, embedding this realization within the chapters on Essence and Tenet. I sought to benefit others with this teaching, hoping to repay in small measure the kindness of my teacher through the Dharma. I also believed that none among the ancient or modern masters had uncovered such profound meaning.

Later, I read the *Combined Commentary* by Master Ji Yin, and last autumn I obtained the book *Correct Lineage*. Both works illuminate much regarding the visible nature of seeing. I realized that what resonates heart to heart is not bound by time—agreement arises naturally without planning. However, I regret that the *Combined Commentary* is concise but incomplete, while the *Correct Lineage* is detailed but lacks reliable foundation. The balanced middle way still awaits future scholars; how could someone as shallow and ignorant as I fully grasp it? Yet, as one who sees only a small part of the leopard through a tube, I cannot help but share this limited view with those who have yet to look. May those of great insight, who see the complete leopard, kindly refrain from mocking me.