維摩義記 2.26

2.26

In the third [point], reiterating the rebuke for expounding contrary to their inclinations, he rebukes him through analogies. There are three clauses in this. "If they wish to tread the great path, do not point out a narrow lane" is the first rebuke. The monks' seeking the great is called "wishing to tread the great path". The small teachings are constricted and narrow like a small path; to teach the small to those who seek the great is inappropriate in principle, hence he says, "do not point out [a narrow lane]". "Do not pour the great ocean into a cow's footprint" is the second rebuke. The monks' vast aspirations are like the great ocean; the narrowness and shallowness of the small defilements are like a cow's footprint. Settling the mind to abide in the Dharma is referred to as "pouring into"; this is also inappropriate, hence he says, "do not pour the great ocean into a cow's footprint". "Do not equate the light of the sun with that of a firefly" is the third rebuke. The monks' great inclinations are like the light of the sun; the small inclinations of the śrāvakas are like a firefly. To equate the great with the small is contrary to reason, which is why he rebukes him, saying, "do not equate the light of the sun with that of a firefly."