大華嚴經略策 1.18

1.18

Eleventh: the consummate wonder of the ten faiths. Question: The ten faiths are the beginning and full wisdom is the end. Although a tree that fills a man's embrace arises from a tiny sprout, the tiny sprout has not yet risen above the clouds; although wondrous enlightenment is attained through faith, how can faithful mind encompass the [other] stages? Now you say that within faith the stages are encompassed, and the consummate wonder is頓revealed. Although we have heard these words, we have not understood this purport. Please state the reason to dispel our doubts. Answer: Teachings have depth and shallowness, and faculties have superiority and inferiority. From the subtle to the prominent, gradual teachings guide inferior capacities; at the initial mind immediately consummate, the consummate teaching covers superior persons. Once there is consummate faith and consummate understanding, and consummate cultivation of the myriad practices, sudden awakening and sudden accomplishment render the myriad virtues consummate and complete. Like a maiden of Yue in the morning becoming the queen of Wu by evening, or born in the royal palace at dusk and called the crown prince at dawn, why must there be steps and gradations before becoming a sovereign? Respectfully answered.