華嚴經探玄記 3.13

3.13

Sixth, as for the four kinds of principles: Fascicle eleven of the Samuccaya states: 'In connection with discerning and examining the teachings such as sūtras, one should explain the principles of dharmas. There are four principles: first, the principle of dependence; second, the principle of function; third, the principle of demonstration; and fourth, the principle of dharmatā.' I note: Dependence has two [aspects]: first, dependent origination in conventional truth necessarily arises in mutual dependence, and through this it extends through both defilement and purity; second, the principle of ultimate truth depends upon revealing causes to be disclosed, and this is solely in terms of purity. Second, function also has two: first, all dependently arisen dharmas each have their karmic function; second, the tathatā-dharmadhātu has functions such as support and maintenance. Third, demonstration also has two: first, establishment through inference; second, establishment through direct perception. Fourth, dharmatā also has two: first, whether Buddhas exist or do not exist, the nature of all dependently arisen dharmas arises from conditions; second, the tathatā-dharmadhātu is by its nature self-equal.