法華玄論 2.56

2.56

Answer: In the [first] two cycles the teachings are extensive and the bodies are brief, while in the final cycle the bodies are extensive and the teachings are brief. Furthermore, the first cycle adduces two bodies to establish two teachings, while the final cycle adduces two teachings to establish two bodies. Next, regarding proof based on the two nirvāṇas, this is a brief explanation of the meaning of nirvāṇa. In terms of the greater and lesser nirvāṇas, there are three differences in all: first, the difference between being fundamentally calm and extinguished versus not fundamentally calm and extinguished; second, the difference in severing delusions internal and external to the three realms; third, the difference between being replete with all virtues versus not replete with all virtues. Regarding the difference between being fundamentally calm and extinguished versus not fundamentally calm and extinguished, the "Expedient Means" chapter states: "I set forth these skillful means / to preach the path to the cessation of all suffering, / displaying it as nirvāṇa, / but this too is not true extinction." This explains the expedient nirvāṇa of the past. "All phenomena from the beginning / are constantly characterized by calm extinction. / Once the children of the Buddha have practiced the path, / in future ages they will become buddhas." This explains the true nirvāṇa of the present teaching.