仁王般若經疏 3.4

3.4

Question: Why is it that propagating this sūtra is able to protect the state? Answer: The reasons are manifold; now three points are briefly clarified why it can protect the state. First, prajñā is the mother of the Buddhas, capable of giving birth to all Buddhas. Now, by propagating prajñā, one accords with the Buddha's mind and is protected by the Buddha's supernatural powers, which can prevent the seven calamities from arising and bring peace and joy to the myriad people. Second, Mahāyāna sūtras are what bodhisattvas study. Due to the preaching of this sūtra, bodhisattvas of the ten directions gather like clouds in this land to hear and receive the Great Vehicle; because the supernatural powers of the bodhisattvas are vast, they can prevent the seven calamities from arising. Third, this Mahāyāna sūtra is cherished and revered by the Dharma-protecting devas, dragons, ghosts, and spirits of the ten directions. Due to the preaching of this sūtra, the devas, dragons, spirits, and the like all come to listen to the Dharma and protect the state, being able to eliminate the seven calamities and prevent disasters and obstructions from arising; therefore it can protect the state.