大般涅槃經集解 60.44

60.44

Sengliang states: The fifth is the gate of transforming obstacles. Cultivating the path to transform karma is explained next after the path. Cunda's experiencing of retribution has no end in sight; how can he attain samyak-saṃbodhi? Sengzong states: The preceding discussion on bondage, liberation, and cultivating the path established the objection regarding [the result] already existing in the cause. Now, transforming obstacles and encouraging cultivation establishes the preceding seven attachments regarding the absence of the nature. The reason is that it states that down to beasts and up to all Buddhas, all are fields of merit, and if one gives to them, the reward of merit is inexhaustible. Is this not because there is no [Buddha-]nature in the cause, so that one remains forever in the three realms of existence? Within [the topic of] transforming obstacles there are five textual sections: First, it clarifies the substance of transforming the obstacles of good and bad karma. Second, it clarifies that a bodhisattva is born in the hells by the power of vows, not by actual birth, setting this apart. Third, it restores the correct substance of karma: above it was said that karma can be transformed, and people might think karmic retribution is chaotic and confused, so it further discriminates whether, although there is transformation, the principle of karmic retribution could fail to be apparent. Fourth, it clarifies that although transformation was spoken of above, it now identifies the person [who can transform it]. Fifth, it clarifies by what practice a person can transform it: clarifying that through such practice one transforms it, which identifies the practice of transforming karma. Baoliang states: About to clarify that karma is indeterminate, he first adduces the past teaching of determinate karma to formulate an objection; it is not only bad karma that obstructs the path, but good karma can also obstruct it. As taught in the past: if one creates karma with a heavy mind, one must definitely experience the retribution. If so, Cunda now gives to the Buddha with a heavy mind and will experience inexhaustible retribution among humans and devas; when will he ever enter the rank of the sages?