法華玄論 9.35

9.35

Answer: Two meanings are briefly clarified: First, it signifies that the concealing and revealing of the transformer accord with conditions: when conditions evoke, he is revealed; when conditions cease, he is concealed. Just as the "Parable of the Sun" chapter explains that due to mountain obstruction, it is concealed, and without obstruction, it is revealed. As this sūtra says, "At that time, I and the assembly of monks / all come forth on Mount Gṛdhrakūṭa," this means coming forth because conditions evoke. "These various categories of sentient beings, / passing through asaṃkhyeya kalpas, / do not hear the name of the Three Jewels"—because there is no evocation, he is concealed. This does not differ from the Mahāparinirvāṇa-sūtra; one should not say that that sūtra clarifies eternal abiding while this teaching speaks of impermanence. Second, the buddha-nature and nirvāṇa of the transformed sentient beings fundamentally exist inherently, just as the stūpa, being beneath the earth, cracked open the ground and emerged. Nirvāṇa is fundamentally existent; because defilements cover it, it is not seen, but when the ground of defilement cracks open, it then becomes manifest. This accords with the explanation of Master Daosheng.