妙法蓮華經玄贊 3.8

3.8

Below follows the explanation of the root text. In the first cycle, there are four parts: first, the Bhagavat instructs and enlightens; next, Śāriputra understands; next, the Tathāgata confirms; finally, the Buddha confers prophecy. Because in the same way the texts for the medium and lower capacities each have four parts, among these four, the first one is the "Expedient Means Chapter", while the latter three are all in the "Simile Chapter". Within the Buddha's instruction and enlightenment, the treatise analyzes it into five sections: first, the section praising the supreme excellence of the Dharma; from "Ever since I attained buddhahood" onward is the second section praising the virtues of the Dharma master; from "At that time in the assembly there were arhats whose defilements were exhausted" onward is the third section where the great assembly determines their doubts; from "The Buddha addressed Śāriputra: 'Cease, cease, there is no need to speak further. If this matter were spoken of, all the world would be frightened and doubtful'" onward is the fourth section determining prophecy; from "'Śāriputra, the buddhas appear in the evil world of the five turbidities'" onward is the fifth section cutting off doubts. The Dharma is the teacher of buddhas, and persons accomplish their virtue by means of the Dharma; persons are that which can reveal, while the Dharma relies on persons to be propagated. Therefore, he first praises the excellence of the Dharma and later praises the superiority of the person. The śrāvakas and others had already reached certainty regarding what they had realized, yet hearing the praise of what was spoken, doubts arose; therefore, there is the section determining doubts. What was intended in the Buddha's mind had already been determined beforehand; by proclaiming a halt, he invited their earnest entreaty and also caused evil persons to leave the assembly; having clearly explained its meaning, there is the section determining prophecy. Among the multitude, there were those who heard the previous teaching and again had doubts; the Buddha explained it once more for them, so there is the section cutting off doubts. Thus, it forms five sections. Alternatively, it is divided into two: first, praising the marvel of the Dharma and the master, whereupon the assembly conceives doubts; later, the Buddha further explains by determining prophecy, the assembly again conceives doubts, and he explains these doubts once more; hence it is divided into two.