大華嚴經略策 1.37

1.37

Thirtieth: The distinct realizations of the kalyāṇamitras. Question: Since they are good friends, their understanding and practice must already be complete; why then does each attain only one gate and all say, 'That is not my share'? How can someone with merely a single text or a single skill serve as an instructor? Answer: Dharma gates are boundless, and the gates of entry are each different; intending to symbolize that each oversees distinct, inexhaustible, and inconceivable Dharma gates, they say that they know only one gate and the rest is not their share. Thus the sūtra says: 'The realms of the buddhas are without bound; each, according to their liberation, is able to contemplate and see them'—just as a hundred rivers together return to the ocean. Moreover, this makes Sudhana serve them tirelessly through successive experiences. If one friend were to explain everything fully, he would not need to visit many; and Sudhana would not be able to seek everywhere and serve everywhere. This 'one' is the one that is identical to the many; therefore, upon reaching Samantabhadra, everything is suddenly perfected at once. The 'many' is the many that is identical to the one. One and many are unhindered; thus it is inconceivable. Respectfully answered.