始終心要義記
Essential Guide to the Mind
倓虛大師 述
Master Tanxu Explains
夫戒為成法身之本。定為成解脫之本。慧為成般若之本。故三學為成三德之法。三學之理。適見于經律論三藏中。此文雖非三藏。非佛所說。然依三藏之理。綴輯而成。在宗下為語錄。教下名文書。此文為天台宗第九祖荊溪尊者湛然大師所述。蓋佛說三藏。文義深廣。此文依三藏之文。詮三學之理。雖僅二百餘字。實能攝取三學之要領也。故學法者。欲得諸法要領。須從此入手。設得此文旨趣。然後可以博覽群經。遍窺教海矣。但眾生之根性不一。有從廣教入者。有從略教入者。今荊溪大師。隨眾生機。集此略文。亦列祖古德之悲心善巧也。倓虛今來京師。親見佛教各團體。均有進展。不勝欣慶。又承各團體之優遇。發起講經法會。殊覺慚悚。因留京期促。講他經典。最短者亦須二三星期講畢。因憶此文。為荊溪大師精心之作。以簡賅文字。括諸要義。於此短期。頗覺相適。而妙義精微。非可促通。倓虛學識淺陋。豈敢登座談玄。但藉斯法會。與大眾研究。以結勝緣耳。
The precepts (shila) are the foundation for realizing the Dharma-body. Meditative concentration (samadhi) is the foundation for attaining liberation. Wisdom (prajna) is the foundation for achieving supreme insight. Thus, the threefold training constitutes the path to realizing the three virtuous qualities. The principles of this training are found within the three baskets of scriptures: the Sutras, Vinaya, and Abhidharma. Although this text is not itself a scriptural basket nor the direct words of the Buddha, it has been carefully compiled based on the principles contained in the three baskets. In the Chan tradition, it is considered a record of sayings; in the doctrinal schools, it is regarded as an instructional treatise. This text was composed by Venerable Zhanran, the Ninth Patriarch of the Tiantai school and Master Jingxi.
The Buddha’s three baskets of scriptures are profound and vast in meaning. This short text, however, distills their essence into just over two hundred characters, successfully capturing the core of the threefold training. Therefore, anyone who wishes to grasp the essential principles of Dharma should begin their study here. Once one understands the purpose of this text, they can then explore the extensive sutras and immerse themselves fully in the ocean of Buddha’s teachings.
Sentient beings have different capacities: some enter through expansive teachings, others through condensed ones. Master Jingxi, responding to the diverse needs of beings, compiled this brief text. This reflects the compassionate ingenuity of the ancient patriarchs and masters.
Now that I have come to the capital and witnessed the progress of various Buddhist groups, I am filled with joy and gratitude. I also feel a sense of humble honor for the kindness shown in establishing this Dharma assembly. Due to my short stay in the capital, most sutras would require at least two or three weeks to explain. I recalled that this short composition by Master Jingxi is a masterpiece, using concise words to contain profound meanings. It suits our limited timeframe well. However, its profound and subtle significance cannot be fully grasped in a hurry. I, Tanxu, am of shallow knowledge and unworthy to ascend the Dharma seat to expound deep truths. Yet, through this Dharma assembly, I am grateful to study together with all of you, thus creating a virtuous connection.