維摩經略疏 1.90

1.90

Question: In the overarching exposition of this sūtra, the threefold contemplation preceded and the four teachings followed; upon entering the text, why do the teachings come first and contemplation come after? Answer: In discussing the profound purport, teaching arises from contemplation, like crushing a minute atom to produce a scroll of sūtras of a trichiliocosm. In entering the text to annotate and explain, one enters principle from worldly phenomena; therefore, one must first use the four teachings to analyze and explain the sūtra text. In following the text to enter principle, one must rely on contemplative practice; therefore, one next points out the chapter headings of the threefold contemplation: not a single chapter, single verse, or single phrase fails to enter the non-dual Dharma gate and abide in inconceivable liberation.