大方廣佛華嚴經疏 53.25

53.25

Fifth, the three gates from 'ten kinds of birth' onward clarify the phase of initial birth. Now, the first directly distinguishes it: namely, the time of birth from the right flank. The first is being unconfused at the time of emergence; the last is shaking the lands and benefiting beings; the middle eight are understandable. Second, manifesting a subtle smile: this is at the time of walking seven steps. The Ruiying jing says: 'When the bodhisattva manifested birth, he immediately walked seven steps, pointing to heaven with one hand and pointing to earth with the other, saying: "In heaven and earth, only I am supreme."' This is making a personal vow. The first three are rejoicing for oneself; the next six are rejoicing in being able to benefit all classes universally: that is, the four [classes of beings] lacking wisdom are arrogant themselves, and I can crush them. Fifth, past good now deteriorating, I can continue it. Sixth, being able to serve as a fine field of merit for sentient beings. Seventh, seeing his birth and hearing his teaching, the benefit is not in vain. Eighth, grieving that all fellow practitioners have not attained Buddhahood. Ninth, pitying all fellow attendees stranded in ordinary stages. The last one is due to receiving the Buddha's empowerment. Third, walking seven steps: that is, upon initial birth on the ground, walking seven steps in each of the ten directions to manifest sovereignty and rarity. The number seven exceeds three, meaning transcending the three realms; wherever his feet tread, vajra manifests everywhere. The rest are all understandable.