Many people know that Zhu Yuanzhang is a beggar emperor. He was a poor man before he proclaimed himself emperor. When Zhu Yuanzhang became a monk in order to live in a temple, he ate well at first and was taught to read. However, when the war broke out, the master had no choice but to let the monks in the temple go out for alms, including Zhu Yuanzhang.
After Zhu Yuanzhang proclaimed himself emperor, he returned to this temple. At this time, he may be testing the abbot, or he may be asking the abbot "Do I need to kneel down?" Because he wants a reason not to kneel down. You know, ancient emperors were moody, and if you don't answer this question well, you will lose your head. This question also stumped the host and made him a little nervous. People present are also waiting for his answer. The host thought for a moment and then gave Zhu Yuanzhang eight words: "The present Buddha does not worship the past Buddha." This answer is also to satisfy Zhu Yuanzhang.
This sentence is probably saying, your majesty, since you have become a Buddha, you can bow down, and you don't have to kneel down. It can be said that this sentence saved your own life, and also saved the lives of everyone in your whole temple. After all, it's no good kneeling. You should know how the emperor kneels. How can I do it without kneeling? If you don't kneel, how can you worship Buddha? We can also see the wisdom of the host.