無量壽經連義述文贊 2.4

2.4

The sūtra says: from "manifesting extinction" up to "planting all roots of virtue." The commentary states: This ninth part is returning to the real and benefiting beings. As in the *Mahāyānasaṃgraha*, there are six intentions for the transformation body to manifest extinction: first, because the affair is concluded; second, to remove the inversion of taking [saṃsāra] as pleasure; third, to cause them to abandon arrogance; fourth, to give rise to longing and veneration; fifth, for the sake of bodily diligence; sixth, wishing for swift accomplishment. Now manifesting extinction, the intention also lies here. 'Rescuing and delivering without limit' is the vastness of the benefit; 'limit' (極) means end. 'Removing outflows and planting roots' is the completeness of the benefit. 'Outflows' refers to the three outflows, with 'leaking out' as their meaning, which are the causes of birth and death. 'Virtue' refers to merit and wisdom, with 'nourishing and benefiting' as their function, which are the causes of nirvāṇa. 'Root' also means cause. Relying on the Buddha's manifesting extinction, sentient beings revile conditioned existence, remove the causes of birth and death, and rejoice in stillness to cultivate the causes of nirvāṇa; thus it may be called the completeness of benefit.