法華文句記 1.34

1.34

Regarding “orchids and chrysanthemums”: Zhāng’ān is refuting attachments. When the Buddha spoke to meet the capacities of beings, it was fitting and appropriate to that moment; later generations divided it into sections to express the principle thereby. Obstinate clinging generates disputation, both advancing and retreating fall into error. Even if there are differences and agreements, they are like orchids and chrysanthemums compared to each other; he still allows those who grasp the import to speak. Even if it does not entirely contradict the holy intention, it remains ultimately human opinion. If it roughly attains general utility, there is no need for bitter contention, for fear of losing the four benefits. When the Book of Changes says, “Its odor is like the orchid,” the ancients consistently used “odor” (chou) to mean scent.