大般涅槃經義記 2.49

2.49

In the third analogy of relinquishing the false and taking the genuine, it again first uses an analogy for hearing, next for thinking, and finally for cultivation. The true principle of permanence and bliss was still concealed by the provisional, which is why it says the precious gem was still in the water; because of the difference in principles, the provisional and real teachings are distinguished, which is why it says that by the power of the gem the water became clear and pure. The single matter of water serves as an analogy for the two teachings: the turbid symbolizes the provisional teaching, while the clear symbolizes the real teaching. Following the exposition and awakening to the purport is why it says "saw the gem"; it still being underwater, with the principle not yet immediate to the mind, is why it says "like gazing upon the form of the moon in the empty sky"—this is an analogy for the wisdom of hearing. Next is an analogy for the wisdom of thinking: among the assembly of monks, one capable of understanding permanence is taken as one person; skillfully contemplating to seek the genuine is called the power of expedient means; carefully reflecting in reliance on the teaching is called entering calmly and slowly. Below is an analogy for the wisdom of cultivation: cultivating the mind to realize the real is called immediately obtaining the gem.