大方廣佛華嚴經隨疏演義鈔 85.18

85.18

Regarding the Commentary's phrase 'the first four seek the vehicle that benefits others by means of compassion, wisdom, concentration, and collection', this is an explanation of the general characteristics. The first verse is compassion, the second is wisdom, the third is concentration, and the fourth is the four means of collection. However, the four sections below all elucidate the meaning of the vehicle, which shall now be mapped individually. The first verse has five points: 1. vows and practice supporting each other, like wheels traveling far; 2. all buddhadharmas relying on great compassion, just like numerous spokes converging on a single hub; 3. non-retrograde faithful mind, like the axle at the center; 4. firm and unmoving forbearance, like the linchpin fixed in place; 5. adorned with the jewels of various merits, which pertains generally to the five pāramitās. The final line concludes with the seeking, which is understandable. The second verse has three meanings: 1. dhāraṇī collecting dharmas, like a carriage box containing objects; 2. benevolent compassion shielding and protecting, like spreading canopies and curtains; 3. the four pratisamvids expounding the Dharma, like the ringing of carriage bells. The third verse has three meanings: 1. the pure discipline of pure conduct, like a spotless mattress; 2. samādhi comforting the spirit, like attendant maidens; 3. the sound of the Dharma alerting sentient beings, like the sound of beating drums. The fourth verse has three meanings: 1. the four means of collection benefiting beings inexhaustibly like a treasury; 2. merits completely pure, adorned like jewels; 2. just as oxen have halters and traces to pull the cart free of error, people have shame and conscience to reject evil and venerate good.