法華經義記 8.34

8.34

'Like an excellent physician' downward is the second [major division], the exposition by parable. Within it there are two: first, unfolding the parable; second, application of the parable. Now, first explaining within the unfolding of the parable, there are four [sections], which make parables for the four sections of the exposition by dharma above, but the text is slightly incomplete. First, the two and a half lines make a parable for benefiting beings through supernormal power in the past; second, from 'the sons afterwards' downward, twenty-one lines make a parable for the second, benefiting beings through supernormal power in the present; third, from 'The father, hearing that the sons' downward, one line makes a parable for the third, benefiting beings through supernormal power in the future; fourth, the line and a half after 'Good sons, what do you think?' makes a parable for the fourth, benefiting beings across the three times being not false.