妙法蓮華經玄義 4.22

4.22

Refining dhyāna refers to the nine successive absorptions. Although one previously attained the eight dhyānas, entering them involved intervals. Now, wishing to make them thoroughly ripe, one causes them to enter successively from the first shallow level up to the ultimate depth behind it, with no dross, interval, or taint in between; causing what was non-successive to become successive, it is therefore called "successive." It is also the undefiled refining the defiled, removing all intermittent coarse dross, hence it is called "refining dhyāna." It is also the balancing and tuning of the dhyānas, causing concentration and wisdom to be equal and uninterrupted. The *Abhidharma* explains perfuming and refining only by saying that the undefiled perfumes the four dhyānas. Here, using the undefiled universally to refine the eight grounds is precisely entering the uninterrupted samādhi in succession. Perfuming dhyāna refers to the lion's swift-pounce samādhi. The former was successive and uninterrupted entering; this is also successive and uninterrupted entering, and can also exit successively and uninterruptedly, eliminating coarse intervals and the dust of attachment to the taste of Dharma—just like a lion that can retreat and advance, shaking off all dust. Practitioners entering and exiting this dharma can universally perfume all dhyānas, making them completely fluent and proficient, transforming at will, just like well-cured leather that can be fashioned into objects at will.