大般涅槃經義記 9.19

9.19

Below, fourth, it reveals the meaning of having already realized and entered the great nirvāṇa by relying on the extinction of the body. Because internal realization is difficult to display, it is displayed by relying on the extinction of the body as an entry. Therein are four parts: first, Siṃhanāda requests him to remain; second, the Tathāgata does not grant it; third, Siṃhanāda asks about the intention of the Buddha's extinction; fourth, the Tathāgata explains it for him. In the first, Siṃhanāda builds upon the preceding to request him to remain: "Only the Tathāgata can adorn the grove; without him it is not magnificent. We pray that in your great compassion, you will remain constantly to adorn it."