大般涅槃經義記 1.4

1.4

The persons taught within the bodhisattva piṭaka are also of two kinds: first, gradual; second, sudden. As for those of gradual entry, this person previously practiced the great dharma in the past, studied the lesser in the interim, and later returned to enter the great. Entering the great by way of the lesser is called 'gradual'; hence the sūtra states: 'Excepting those who previously practiced and studied the Hīnayāna, I now also cause them to enter into this dharma.' This is gradual entry. As for those of sudden awakening, there are sentient beings who have long practiced roots of goodness corresponding to the Mahāyāna; upon first seeing the Buddha now, they are able to enter the great. Entering the great without relying on the lesser is designated as 'sudden'; hence the sūtra states: 'There are sentient beings who, throughout generations until now, have constantly received my transformation; upon first seeing my body and hearing what I preach, they all have faith, accept it, and enter into the Tathāgata's wisdom.' This is sudden awakening. The bodhisattva of gradual entry begins with the lesser and ends with the great; the person of sudden awakening enters the profound all at once. Although sudden and gradual are distinct, because at that time their locus of receiving the great is one, that which is spoken for these two persons is the bodhisattva piṭaka.