維摩義記 1.11

1.11

Next, the fourth perspective is differentiation according to text. In a detailed division, the text has eight divisions, but when classified together, there are only three. Concerning the eight: within the three assemblies, each has a prologue and a main body, which makes six divisions. The words "Thus have I heard" at the beginning of the sūtra constitute the general prologue verifying faith for the entire work, taken separately as one. From "The Buddha said to Śāriputra: 'Do you see Abhirati and Akṣobhya or not?'" onward clarifies the meaning of the propagation of the entire work, taken separately as one. Together with the rest, eight are spoken of. As for being classified into three: these eight divisions, when summarized in essential terms, are only the prologue, the main body, and the propagation. Within this, there are five stages of inclusion and exclusion: First, taking specifically Vimalakīrti's current exposition as the main body. Then from the beginning down to his lying alone on a single bed, all serves as the prologue. From "Welcome, Mañjuśrī; you come without the mark of coming" onward is its main body. From "The Buddha said to Śāriputra: 'Do you see Abhirati and Akṣobhya or not?'" onward is its propagation.