大方廣佛華嚴經隨疏演義鈔 26.38

26.38

Regarding the Commentary's statement 'a single thought and a kalpa' and what follows, this explains the meaning of the upāya of mind-only. A single thought and a kalpa both stem from the conceptualizing mind. This has two meanings: first, because of having conceptual thought there are kṣaṇas, and accumulating these kṣaṇas ultimately makes a kalpa. If conceptual thought ceases, saṃsāra is cut off forever. This accords with the sūtra text. Second, all realms have distinctions solely dependent on false conceptualization; if free from mental conceptualization, there are no characteristics of any realms whatsoever. This accords with the sūtra's intended meaning in establishing the contemplation of mind-only. Therefore the Commentary states: 'When conceptual thoughts do not arise, where do long and short reside?' When there is neither long nor short, the mental essence is pure. Hence the sūtra says: 'Purifying all through a single upāya.' This is with respect to the true nature. The third line is the meaning of not destroying characteristics, which is the meaning of the ocean of lands where characteristics and nature are unhindered.