大般涅槃經義記 5.22

5.22

In the extensive part, it first raises the analogy of the floating float: the 'person' is an analogy for the bodhisattva; the 'floating float' is an analogy for the precepts; the 'ocean' is an analogy for saṃsāra; the 'rākṣasa' is an analogy for the minds of various afflictions desiring to break the precepts; 'feeling astonished and refusing to give' is an analogy for the mind guarding the precepts. The amount begged for corresponds naturally in the text. Below, it reveals the dharma accordingly: 'The bodhisattva guarding the precepts is also like this' generally corresponds to the preceding analogy; 'just like that person crossing over' generally applies the analogy. From 'When the bodhisattva guards the precepts like this...' onward, it individually corresponds to the preceding analogy. In the preceding analogy there were five gradations, while in the correspondence there are six; it does not focus on the number, but takes the equal guarding of light and grave as the primary meaning. As for the statement 'Breaking the precepts will allow you to peacefully attain nirvāṇa,' it is spoken hypothetically; alternatively, that pleasure of breaking precepts may be called nirvāṇa. The above concludes the extensive part. 'Maintaining the four grave prohibitions and the duṣkṛtas without distinction' concludes it generally.