妙法蓮華經玄贊 2.98

2.98

There are ten meanings: First, entering and arising accord with conditions, benefiting beings in movement and stillness. Second, if he did not enter meditative absorption, there would be no basis for emitting light and manifesting various auspicious omens; if he did not enter meditative absorption, it might be feared not to be a buddha’s auspicious omen. Third, when about to preach the Dharma, he displays examining the capacities [of beings]. Fourth, to show that the Dharma is exceptional and wondrous, he enters absorption to contemplate it, causing [beings] to respect it. Fifth, to show that wisdom necessarily arises from realizing the principle and entering absorption, acting as an exemplar for later students to cultivate concentration and wisdom. Sixth, to demonstrate that concentration and wisdom are complete: preaching the Dharma demonstrates the fullness of wisdom, and entering absorption reveals the fullness of concentration. Seventh, to serve as a rule for the final age: when preaching the Dharma, one must first calm one's own mind. Eighth, to display the characteristics of excellent contemplation and intelligence, and also to cause others to carefully examine matters. Ninth, entering meditative absorption and manifesting omens gives rise to the three questions and answers; otherwise, there would be no inquiries from Maitreya and others. Tenth, to display the three mysteries: entering absorption is the mental mystery, emitting light and the like is the bodily mystery, and preaching the Dharma is the verbal mystery. A verse says: “Accord, omens, examine, wondrous, exemplar, / Full, final, contemplation, questions, mysteries.”