新華嚴經論 17.3

17.3

The meaning of the third, the Bodhisattva Utkṛṣṭamati (Sheng hui), is divided into four: first, explaining the bodhisattva's name; second, explaining the land of residence; third, explaining the title of the Buddha-fruit corresponding to the stage; fourth, explaining the direction from which he comes. First, explaining the bodhisattva's name: he is named Utkṛṣṭamati (Superior Wisdom) because, in progressing through the stages, [his realization] becomes even more lucid and pure; without displacing a single phenomenon, he surpasses the preceding stage. Second, explaining the name of the world: it is named the Ratnapuṣpa (Jeweled Flower) World because this illustrates using the kṣānti-pāramitā to attain the wisdom of all Buddhas, able to practice the conduct of forbearance by means of the essence of the Way. 'Flower' means practice; it illustrates using the practice of forbearance to adorn the dharmakāya of wisdom. Third, explaining the title of the Buddha-fruit: the Buddha is named Acalacandra (Immovable Moon) because, having attained the principle, practice is perfected, and penetrating mind and objects there is nothing that can move [him]; this illustrates being able to endure. 'Moon' means the cooling [aspect]. Fourth, explaining the direction from which he comes: he is among the assembly of the west, because the west corresponds to autumn, to destruction, and to the truth of suffering, while the position of loving-kindness and compassion lies within it. Just as in the ten dedications of merit Sudhana visits Avalokiteśvara to the west of the Diamond Mountain: this shows that metal corresponds to destruction, symbolizing the cultivation of compassionate forbearance in the very place of manifold sufferings. For these reasons, the bodhisattva is named Utkṛṣṭamati, the world is named Ratnapuṣpa, and the Buddha is named Acalacandra, altogether illustrating the superior power and function of realizing phenomena and perfecting forbearance. This is the meaning of the jeweled flower; this is the remedial Dharma-gate for the abode of cultivation. This corresponds to Sudhana's meeting with the bhikṣu Supratiṣṭhita, who attained the unimpeded Dharma-gate because of being able to endure.