大般涅槃經義記 10.32

10.32

The above was the second question-and-answer, which clarifies [the meaning] again; below, the third takes occasion to explain the distinction between sharp and dull faculties among srotāpannas. "Srotāpannas are of two kinds" presents the overall statement; "sharp and dull faculties" lists their names. Below, their characteristics are distinguished; first, those of dull faculties are distinguished, explaining them in terms of rebirths. Srotāpannas of extremely dull faculties undergo rebirth up to seven times in the heavens and among humans before attaining nirvāṇa; the least [number of rebirths for dull ones] is two rebirths. Therefore, it is now said that "they undergo seven returns among humans and devas," citing the most dull. "There are also five kinds" explains the remaining five stages. Below, they are listed separately: from six returns down to two are the five kinds. "Those of sharp faculties attain from srotāpanna up to arhat in the present life" distinguishes those of sharp faculties. Question: Why is one return not discussed? Explanation: Srotāpannas possess eight grades in total: from seven returns down to one constitutes seven grades, and parinirvāṇa in the present life is the eighth. Among the eight, from seven returns down to two are definitely dull, and parinirvāṇa in the present life is definitely sharp; these are fully distinguished in the text. One return is indeterminate: someone of sharp faculties who ought to attain parinirvāṇa in the present life may not attain it in the present life due to various conditions and only attains it after undergoing [another] life; this one is of sharp faculties. Someone of dull faculties who cultivates diligently in the present life and does not attain it, only attaining it after undergoing [another] life; this one is of dull faculties. Because sharp and dull faculties are indeterminate [in this case], it is omitted and not discussed. Next is the reply to the fourth sentence of the question. It first cites the words of the question, and below, distinguishes and explains them. "The *makara* fish has four [qualities]" cites the number based on the simile. "Its bones are slender and light," etc., lists the names based on the simile. Below, it reveals the Dharma by reference [to the simile]: in "it holds onto objects firmly," it first reveals the Dharma with reference to the simile; from "just like the Māra king" downward, it cites past events to corroborate it.