大般涅槃經集解 65.44

65.44

Sengliang comments: Vowing not to commit evil gives rise to the precept of non-manifest [action], which is able to prevent evil phenomena. Not committing evil is called 'upholding the precepts' because when one does not commit evil, non-manifest [action] arises by itself and the nature of the precept is bright and pure; this is called 'upholding the precepts.' If one gives rise to evil actions, the precept coexists with evil and the precept is not bright and pure; because one has transgressed one's original vow, this is not called upholding the precepts. Not understanding the Buddha's intention, hearing it said 'not doing [evil],' they thought that no further active factor arises and that there is no non-manifest [action].