法華義疏 8.55

8.55

From “At that time, countless” downward is the second, matching the parable of the medicinal herbs and trees, which means receiving the exhortation and coming. From “The Tathāgata then” downward is the third, matching the parable of the pouring rain. From “various and immeasurable” downward is the fourth, matching the parable of receiving moisture. Generating joy in one's mind upon first hearing the preaching of the Dharma is precisely “receiving moisture.” From “definitely obtain excellent benefits” downward matches the fifth, the parable of growing. This phrase generally matches growing. From “These sentient beings” downward specifically matches growing, and has two parts: first, matching growing in terms of worldly benefits. Regarding “in the present world they enjoy peace and stability,” because they hear the Dharma, in the present world their obstacles are eliminated and good arises; hence they attain peace and stability. “In future lives are born in good places” clarifies the retribution in the next rebirth. “Experiencing joy through the path” explains retribution in subsequent rebirths. Now, this text applies both to the next rebirth and subsequent rebirths; here it is temporarily explained with reference to subsequent retribution. Because they hear the correct path, they produce joyous retribution; therefore it says “experiencing joy through the path.” From “also get to hear the Dharma” downward clarifies attaining supramundane benefits to match growing, which also has three phrases: the first is the wisdom resulting from hearing; from “leaving behind all hindrances” downward clarifies the wisdom resulting from reflection; from “according to the strength of their capacities” downward clarifies the wisdom resulting from cultivation.