法華玄義釋籤 3.2

3.2

Next, in explaining the four siddhāntas, chapters are listed and separately explained. First, ten chapters are set out and listed, spanning the entirety of a [Buddha's] lifetime. Within this there are two [parts]: the first seven chapters generally concern the various sūtras, while the latter three chapters are solely the intent of the present sūtra. The first seven again have four [parts]: the first two directly clarify the siddhāntas; the next two, the identity and difference of names and meanings; the next two, their arising functions; and the last one, the advantages and disadvantages of self-realization and benefiting others. Regarding the first two: the first is the general name, and the next is the specific characteristics. In the next two on the identity and difference of names and meanings: in the first, the names have identity and difference, while the meanings are entirely identical; in the next, the names are entirely different, while the meanings are identical. In the next two: first, ordinary beings produce contemplation and sages produce teachings; next, it is solely the sages' speech and silence. The next one is the advantages and disadvantages of ordinary beings and sages. Next, in the latter three: the first two clarify the intent of the present sūtra, and the last one clarifies the text of the present sūtra. Within the first two: the first assesses the provisional and the real, and the next opens the provisional and the real. Having grasped this meaning, one only then knows the differences among the siddhāntas of the [Buddha's] lifetime. Although the meanings of the first seven gates extend to the present sūtra, its subtlety has not been uniquely revealed; because this specific text must be separately explained, there are the latter three. Reflect upon this, reflect upon this!