大般涅槃經義記 1.6

1.6

Next, its title is explained. To speak now of 'Great Nirvāṇa' is to designate the specific title of this text. Scripture titles are not identical, being of many kinds: some correspond to dharmas, some refer to persons, some accord with events, some derive from similes, some refer to person and dharma, some derive from dharma and simile, and some accord with events and dharmas; such examples are more than one. Now, this sūtra takes its title from dharma. 'Dharma' refers to the fruit of the Great Nirvāṇa of the buddhas; therefore, it is raised at the outset. This title is not complete [in transcription]: if one relies on the Sanskrit text, it is called mahāparinirvāṇa. Mahā means great, an expression of praise for its excellence. Nirvāṇa is threefold: namely, that attained by śrāvakas, by pratyekabuddhas, and by the Buddha. To distinguish it, the former two do not add ['great']; therefore, it is called 'great.' Its essence in truth transcends duality, yet it is revealed by relying on contrast.