法華文句記 5.68

5.68

雖並從譬，各有一意，機論可發，器語堪任。得人天身通名為器，由懷三失故器成非，宿種又微無機可發，二義俱闕佛威令去。

Although both are metaphors, each has its distinct meaning: capacity refers to that which can be stimulated; vessel speaks of capability. Attaining a human or heavenly body is generally termed a vessel; because they harbor the three faults, the vessel becomes defective; their past seeds being faint, there is no capacity to be stimulated. Lacking both meanings, the Buddha's awe-inspiring power caused them to depart.