大般涅槃經義記 9.31

9.31

The passage above explains away the subsequent objections; below, he resolves the initial question. Previously it was asked what the characteristics of concentration, wisdom, and equanimity are; the Buddha now distinguishes them. Here, one should first broadly explain the three meanings and only then explain the text; the meanings are as [stated] in a separate chapter. In the text there are eight rounds: first, distinguishing them in terms of objective spheres; second, distinguishing them in terms of persons; third, distinguishing them according to their characteristics, which may also be called distinguishing them in terms of their functions; fourth, analyzing their characteristics through expansion and contraction; fifth, clarifying the purpose of cultivation; sixth, clarifying their mutual support; seventh, distinguishing the three practices in terms of the three samādhi gateways; eighth, distinguishing their differences in terms of the times of cultivation.