維摩義記 1.20

1.20

Question: Non-self is the ultimate truth, and having a self is conventional truth; non-self is superior, and having a self is inferior. Why not follow the superior and proclaim non-self, rather than resort to the inferior and speak of "I"? [Answer:] The method for transforming sentient beings must be like this. If one did not say "I," by what means could one demarcate and distinguish this and that so as to let people know and understand? Therefore one must say "I." For this reason, even the Buddha, when facing sentient beings, also regularly spoke of "I."