維摩經略疏 3.6

3.6

First, briefly explaining the name: "Fang" (direction/means) is the partial phenomena reached by wisdom; "bian" (convenience/adaptation) is the skillfulness of good skillful utilization. Utilizing all phenomena in accordance with capacities to benefit beings is therefore called "expedient means" (fāngbiàn). Hence the text says: "The perfection of wisdom is the mother of the bodhisattva, and skillful expedient means is the father." There are three kinds of expedient means, which are the three types of the two wisdoms: first, transforming others; second, self-practice and transforming others; third, self-practice. These are fully set forth in the Profound Meaning (Xuányì).