維摩經略疏 8.90

8.90

Question: Why did Śāriputra first ask about passing away and rebirth, and next ask how long before attaining the Way, whereas Vimalakīrti's confirmation first confirms the dharmakāya's attainment of the Way and next confirms passing away and rebirth? Answer: Śāriputra asked from a deluded mind about the ultimate principle beyond phenomenal activities; Vimalakīrti confirms it in terms of principle. Only when one attains the forbearance of the unarisen does one attain the dharmakāya, and only then does responsive functioning arise. Although Śāriputra had six questions and the goddess answered without obstruction, her essential intent remained difficult to see; therefore, using four meanings to confirm it makes the intent fully clear.