妙法蓮華經玄贊 3.151

3.151

The Commentary says: From this passage below is the third [part], relying on what meaning, which has two parts: first, a brief statement; second, a detailed explanation. This is the first. Arising from the preceding text, a rhetorical question is therefore posed to make evident: what is the reason for this? The words and phrases are difficult to understand, known only to buddhas; relying on what meaning did he speak like this? "The buddhas, the Bhagavats" comprehensively encompasses the buddhas of the ten directions and three times. Regarding "solely for one great matter", [matter means] affairs, substantial affairs, the meaning of affairs, or principle, as appropriate in each case. For this great matter of causes and conditions they therefore appear in the world, proclaiming their virtuous titles to broadly benefit sentient beings; otherwise, they would enter extinction like the two vehicles. It is on account of this great matter that what is spoken in accord with suitability has a purport that is difficult to understand.