維摩經略疏 8.30

8.30

From "He also asked" to "non-extinction" is the fifth question and answer, which together with the next exchange both serve to complete the immeasurable mind of equanimity. The first question and answer generally presents correct mindfulness, and the next differentiates the distinct characteristics of correct mindfulness. First, asking "How does one practice correct mindfulness?" is asking how to cultivate correct mindfulness to generate good and sever evil, completing the fourth great vow and upholding the immeasurable mind of equanimity so that it does not retrogress. Next, the answer "One should practice non-arising and non-extinction" refers to the four kinds of diligence within the four stations of mindfulness, called the four right exertions. If the right exertions are accomplished, they block the two unwholesome phenomena and assemble the two wholesome phenomena. If the two unwholesome phenomena are extinguished, this is the truth of cessation; conditioning upon this truth of cessation, one gives rise to the fourth vow; therefore it is said that for those who have not attained nirvāṇa, causing them to attain nirvāṇa is precisely the truth of cessation. This completes the immeasurable mind of equanimity: setting aside attachment, aversion, and the three minds, all afflictions are extinguished; this is also: 'The unexcelled Buddha path, I vow to accomplish.'