維摩經略疏 6.14

6.14

From "If Maitreya" down is the fourth [section], double concluding explanation. The text has two parts: first, explanation in terms of refuting the virtue of wisdom; second, explanation in terms of refuting the virtue of severance. As for the first passage, it also implicitly explains in terms of the virtue of wisdom of the three teachings. First, explaining in terms of the Common Teaching: bodhi is paired with the afflictions of sentient beings; the suchness of sentient beings' afflictions and the suchness of bodhi are neither two nor different. If Maitreya attains sambodhi, all sentient beings should also attain it. Herein Vimalakīrti personally explains: "All sentient beings are the characteristic of bodhi." Since sentient beings are already the characteristic of bodhi, and suchness is devoid of self-production, there cannot further be the prophecy of the fruition of wisdom perfected as bodhi. Second, explaining in terms of the Distinct: provisionally it is the same as the Common, differing in seeing the middle. Third, explaining in terms of the Perfect: the afflictions of sentient beings have the characteristic of wisdom, like a person's face having the characteristic of merit; this characteristic of bodhi is the characteristic of suchness, the characteristic of wisdom. Both sentient beings and Maitreya have this characteristic; when the Buddha contemplates the two suchnesses, both should receive prophecy. Although incorporating the previous two teachings, the intent of the sūtra rests on the Perfect.