金剛經纂要刊定記 3.34

3.34

"Spreading his seat as usual" means that in every assembly where the Tathāgata expounded prajñā, he always spread the sitting mat himself; because prajñā gives birth to all buddhas and is thus the mother of buddhas, to express reverence for prajñā, he spread the seat himself. Having already expounded eight assemblies, this corresponds to the ninth; since the decorum and standard do not change, it is said to be "as usual." Fu refers to the instep of the foot; jia refers to placing one foot upon the other; jie means the two feet do not scatter, symbolizing auspiciousness. Therefore, the *Mahāprajñāpāramitōpadeśa* says: "Seeing even a painting of the cross-legged sitting posture, / The Māra King is already terrified; / How much more so for a person who enters the Way, / Keeping the body upright without swaying!" Furthermore, for the sake of five causes and conditions of correct contemplation, one sits cross-legged: First, because through drawing in and collecting the body, light ease quickly arises, which is most supreme. Second, because through this quiet sitting one can endure for a long time without causing the body to tire quickly. Third, because this quiet sitting is an uncommon Dharma, entirely absent from non-Buddhist other doctrines. Fourth, because this quiet sitting presents a dignified and majestic appearance, causing others upon seeing it to feel utmost reverence and faith. Fifth, because this quiet sitting is mutually permitted by all buddhas and disciples of buddhas, and praised by all worthies and nobles. For the sake of these five causes and conditions of correct contemplation, one should sit cross-legged.