法華經義記 2.65

2.65

"Śāriputra, since I attained buddhahood": from here down is the second [part] within relying on words to praise the two knowledges, designated as relying on words to praise the two knowledges—expedient and real—of Śākya[muni]. Within it there are also three tiers: first, singly praising the expedient knowledge of Śākya[muni]; second, singly praising the real knowledge; third, singly concluding the real knowledge. In the first there are two: first, directly praising expedient knowledge; second, from "Why is this?" onwards, an explanation. Within directly praising there are three: first, "Śāriputra, since I attained buddhahood" clarifies the time period of expedient knowledge; second, from "various causes and conditions" onwards directly praises expedient knowledge; third, from "guiding sentient beings" onwards concludes and manifests [it]. Now, the second, directly praising expedient knowledge, is precisely what is wrought by expedient knowledge. "Various causes and conditions": these are the names of the dharmas spoken by the expedient knowledge of Śākya[muni]. Śrāvakas contemplate the four truths as causes and conditions, pratyekabuddhas contemplate the twelve links of dependent origination as causes and conditions, and bodhisattva persons contemplate the six perfections as causes and conditions; hence it says "various causes and conditions." It also says "various parables": this compares the three vehicles when practicing the causes, where śrāvakas are like hares, pratyekabuddhas are like horses, and bodhisattvas are like elephants; and it compares the three vehicles when attaining the fruit, where śrāvakas are compared to goat carts, pratyekabuddhas are compared to deer carts, and bodhisattvas are compared to ox carts; hence it says "various parables." "Broadly expounding verbal teachings with countless skilfulnesses": not only did he preach the Dharma, but awaiting the place and awaiting the time, they were varied and different; hence it says "broadly expounding verbal teachings with countless skilfulnesses."