妙法蓮華經玄義 5.12

5.12

Heretofore, one thoroughly ripened the contemplation of the mind and had no leisure to engage in worldly affairs. Now, as correct contemplation is somewhat clear, one collaterally benefits sentient beings. One can make a small giving equal to the empty space of the dharma realm, causing all dharmas to converge upon dāna, with dāna becoming the dharma realm. The *Pañcaviṃśatisāhasrikā-prajñāpāramitā* says: 'If a bodhisattva's small giving surpasses that of śrāvakas and pratyekabuddhas, they should train in prajñā.' This is precisely what it means. The other five [pāramitās] are also like this. Although phenomenal acts are few, the intention conceived is extremely vast. Here, the contemplation of principle is primary, while phenomenal practice is secondary; hence it is called 'collaterally practicing giving.' Phenomenal merit assists principle, so the ten minds flourish all the more. This is called the stage of the fourth grade.