456 - THE TREASURY OF KNOWLEDGE How the Treasury ofKnowledge Came to Be Written Those who have read and are familiar with a few major source texts use their minds to skim over the general range of knowledge in the most cursory manner Those whose path is one oflaboring with minor secular fields of knowledge find the eye of their intelligence dulled· for viewing the vast scope of the Buddha's excellent teachings I myself have not realized these in any authentic way Nevertheless, due to my having heard many teachings and having relied on the writings of holy masters, I have composed this work with the intention of benefiting others May it serve to illuminate the Sage's flawless teachings for a long time! Prayer of Aspiration Through this, may beings enjoy happiness, well-being, and increase of spirituality; observe completely pure discipline; train themselves by hearing, contemplating, and meditating on teachings; reach the consummation of the spiritual paths and levels, with their manifest states of realization; and attain as one the state of the three kayas! Confession of Errors and Auspicious Prayers For any contradictions or errors, in the presence of the Three Roots and those endowed with the eye of spirituality, I request forbearance, and ask that you grant that I be inspired to attain the most sublime state of purity and absolution; please ensure the auspicious conditions for this treatise to endure as long as the Sage's teachings, casting illumination on all, like the sun and moon! THE SOURCE VERSES - 457 Colophon This treatise was written by me, who has heard many teachings, the positive effect of which has given rise in me to constant faith and a pure attitude toward the entire tradition of the Sage's teachings and those who uphold it, without any sectarian bias I have been guided by the compassionate embrace of many holy masters, including the lord Maitreya, Tai Situ I, Karma Ngawang Y