妙法蓮華經文句 4.26

4.26

Seventh, on receiving predictions and not receiving predictions: If they all equally expressed understanding, why did the śrāvakas receive predictions, while the conditioned realizers and bodhisattvas are not seen to receive predictions? Here too there are three meanings: First, in the past it was explained that once the two vehicles entered the stage of definite correctness they could not generate the mind [for bodhi], so how could they receive predictions? Now that they have awakened to the Great [Vehicle], they rejoice in this special determination; therefore, [the Buddha] confers predictions upon them with kalpas and lands. Bodhisattvas, having resolved to seek buddhahood, have their practices fulfilled naturally; thus they do not urgently seek it, nor does the Buddha press them with a bestowal. Furthermore, the previous teachings conferred predictions upon bodhisattvas everywhere; this was a regular exposition, and the translation follows what is essential, as explained before (and so on). Second, bodhisattvas also have specific predictions: are not Devadatta and the dragon girl [receiving] predictions? In addition, the 'Dharma Teacher' chapter says: 'Those who seek the śrāvaka [vehicle], those who seek the pratyekabuddha [vehicle], and those who seek the buddha path—all such persons who hear this Lotus Sūtra before the Buddha, to every one of them I grant a prediction that they will attain supreme bodhi.' How could this not be a prediction for all? Third, the two vehicles had never previously received a prediction of the eight phases [of a buddha's life], and thus their kalpas and lands are predicted; bodhisattvas had already received predictions previously, so it is not stated again. A shallow, proximate prediction is attained already at the first abidance, and is not what bodhisattvas rejoice in; what bodhisattvas rejoice in is rather the distant prediction of the consummate and ultimate wondrous awakening. Therefore, in the 'Lifespan' chapter, beginning from initial aspiration and culminating in attainment in a single lifetime, the wondrous cause is thereby fulfilled and the ultimate fruit is suddenly perfected; this is conferring a prediction of the dharma body—how can it be said that there is no prediction?