大般若波羅蜜多經般若理趣分述讚 2.23

2.23

The Explanation says: This is the general indication by analogy. 'Kalpa' is a measure of time. When bodhisattvas cultivate the cause, both the time and the practice are vast; therefore, praising their virtues cannot be exhausted even through kalpas. This refers to turning the wheel of Dharma, the patience with non-arising, and so forth; fearing that the text would become overly voluminous, it merely makes an indication by analogy. Why is it necessary to praise the virtues of bodhisattvas? In order to eliminate the condescending minds of sentient beings. Some make this statement: 'The assemblies of śrāvakas have cultivated pure conduct for a long time; the assemblies of bodhisattvas ought to pay homage to them.' It is also to cause sentient beings to give rise to a pure mind: if even bodhisattvas possess such virtues, how much more so the Tathāgata! Therefore, sentient beings take refuge and pay homage with a sincere heart, and universally vow to swiftly realize it.