大般涅槃經義記 1.68

1.68

From here on, it next clarifies the two lay assemblies. Because upāsakas have an honorable status and are fewer in number, they are listed first; upāsikās and the others, having a humble status and being greater in number, are shown after them. The section on upāsakas contains four divisions: first, listing the assembly and praising their virtues; second, from "in the early morning" downward, explaining their presentation of offerings to the Buddha; third, from "the World-Honoured One, knowing..." downward, the Tathāgata's non-acceptance; fourth, their unsuccessful result and retreating to remain standing. These four divisions are mostly the same across the various assemblies, so one should carefully remember and understand them. Within the first, there are four: first, listing the assembly; second, constantly stating the count: previously it spoke of one Gaṅgā['s sands], now it increases to two.