大般涅槃經集解 1.40

1.40

Fazhi comments: Broadly classified, this sūtra has two distinct parts: first is the compiler's introductory teaching, namely the "Introductory Chapter"; second is the principal teaching, from the "Cunda Chapter" through the end of the sūtra. The reason there is no entrustment is that the transmission and translation were not yet complete. Within the principal teaching, it is divided into six sections: first, the two chapters "Cunda" and "Lamentation" establish the tenet; second, from the "Longevity Chapter" through the "Manifestation of Illness Chapter" may be taken as the teaching given in response to questions; third, teaching the Five Practices indicates the method of cultivation for those who hear the sūtra; fourth, teaching the Ten Merits clarifies the merits obtained by practitioners; fifth, "Lion's Roar" and "Kāśyapa" clarify the causes and fruits of the buddhadhātu; and sixth, "Kauṇḍinya" is the teaching that transforms the non-Buddhists.