大般涅槃經義記 1.52

1.52

From here below, the third section explains the new assembly gathering like clouds. Why did they need to assemble? There were eight purposes: First, to entreat him to remain; hence the text above says, “Swiftly go to the Buddha's place and entreat the Tathāgata not to enter parinirvāṇa.” Second, to make offerings; hence the various assemblies below prepare offerings for the Buddha. Third, for the jhāpita; hence the text below says, “In order to perform the jhāpita of the Tathāgata's body.” Fourth, to resolve doubts; hence the text below says, “And we may pay reverent homage and request the resolution of our doubts.” Fifth, to reveal the Dharma; hence the text below says, “In order to reveal the Tathāgata's expedient, secret teaching.” Sixth, for the sake of sentient beings; hence the text below says, “In order to benefit sentient beings.” Seventh, for philosophical debate; as in the text below, where the ten ṛṣis gathered like clouds. Eighth, to spectate; as the Vinaya states: “After the Buddha's parinirvāṇa, Mahākāśyapa saw a Nirgrantha holding a heavenly flower in his hand, walking along the road. He asked, 'Where have you come from?' The Nirgrantha replied, 'I come from Kuśīnagara.' 'Did you see the World-Honoured One?' He replied, 'I saw him.' 'Is he at peace?' He replied, 'It has already been seven days since his extinction; I took this flower from that assembly and came.'” People like this came merely to spectate. Such were their intentions for coming. Those listed here possess the first six intentions, which is why they assembled.