仁王經疏 1.16

1.16

Commentary: From here below is the second [part], the division of the text and correct explanation. Within the one scripture, namely its eight chapters, there are two distinct divisions. First, relying on the original record, it is broadly divided into four: (1) the division on initiating, namely the opening "Introductory Chapter"; (2) the division on the main teaching, namely the following five chapters; (3) the division on the kings attaining state protection, namely the "Chapter on Receiving and Upholding"; (4) the division on dissemination, namely the "Chapter on Entrustment". Now, dividing this sūtra according to the Buddhabhūmi-śāstra, it is broadly divided into three: the first chapter is called the division on the causes and conditions for the arising of the teaching; the following five chapters are called the division on what is taught by the sacred teaching; the final two chapters are called the division on practicing in accordance with the teaching. Clarifying what has been heard and so forth is the cause and condition for the arising of the teaching, and is therefore called the division on the causes and conditions for the arising of the teaching; directly clarifying the Dharma-gates and various classifications taught by the sacred teaching is called the division on what is taught by the sacred teaching; clarifying that the assembly at that time, having heard the Buddha's sacred teaching, rejoiced and practiced it is called the division on practicing in accordance with the teaching. These correspond to the traditional explanation of preface, main discourse, and dissemination. "Preface" refers to the background and prelude, giving rise to the reasons for the main teaching. "Main" is the main doctrine, discerning the fundamental meaning of what is signified. "Dissemination" is propagation, gathering the supreme benefits for later generations.