妙法蓮華經玄義 2.17

2.17

As for the general explanation: appearance is based on the external, observable and distinguishable, hence named 'appearance'. Nature is based on the internal, one's own share not changing, hence named 'nature'. The primary substance is named 'substance'. Function and efficacy is 'power'. Constructing and making is 'activity'. Habitual cause is 'cause'. Auxiliary cause is 'condition'. Habitual effect is 'effect'. Retributive effect is 'retribution'. The initial appearance is the beginning; the final retribution is the end. The point of convergence is the ultimate equality (and so forth). If interpreted in terms of suchness, the initial and the final both being empty is equality. If interpreted in terms of nature and appearance, the mutual presence of the initial and the final is equality. If interpreted in terms of the middle, the initial and the final both being the real mark is equality. Now, not relying on these three dharmas being separately present, their complete endowment is ultimate equality. As for the ultimate, the middle alone is the ultimate, which is to take the real mark as equality.