維摩經略疏 7.22

7.22

"He answered, 'By emptiness it is empty.'" If this is explained in terms of the unity of object and wisdom in illuminating the emptiness of phenomena, it is as the Mahāparinirvāṇa Sūtra explains that it is empty because of the emptiness of emptiness. It is also empty because bodhisattvas cultivate emptiness, just as the nature of salt is salty and makes other things salty; hence it is said, "by emptiness it is empty." Here it is meant that if one is confused about the teaching's intention and merely chases words, saying "empty of emptiness," then emptiness becomes limitless and does not escape frivolous discourse. What the Tripiṭaka and Shared teachings explain is merely the emptiness of emptiness within the three realms. Now, the correct contemplation of the Middle Way is able to empty samsara and also empty nirvāṇa; hence it is said, "empty of emptiness." If one empties samsara, that is the emptiness of the cohabitation [land]; if one empties nirvāṇa, that is the emptiness of the transformation [land]. Therefore it is said, "by emptiness it is empty." Why is this? If even the substantial forms within the realms are yet empty, how much more so must the subtle and wondrous retribution fruits outside the realms not be empty! Deducing from this, the empty room signifies that the buddha-lands are empty, properly signifying that the various lands are the [Land of] Eternally Silent Light.