法華宗要 1.20

1.20

Fifth, the section clarifying the classification of the teachings: by which teaching is this Lotus Sūtra subsumed? Is it of definitive meaning (nītārtha), or of non-definitive meaning (neyārtha)? Some say that this sūtra is of non-definitive meaning. Why is this so? Broadly dividing the Buddha's teachings, there are three wheels of the Dharma: First, the wheel of the Dharma possessing characteristics, which turns the wheel of the Dharma based on the characteristics of the four noble truths solely for those who set out upon the śrāvakayāna, as in the Āgamas and so forth. Second, the wheel of the Dharma lacking characteristics, which turns the wheel of the Dharma based on the emptiness-nature of dharmas solely for those who set out upon the bodhisattvayāna, as in the Prajñāpāramitā-sūtras and so forth. Third, the wheel of the Dharma that is without characteristics and unsurpassed, which is universally for those who set out upon the Triyāna, based on the emptiness of all dharmas.