淨名玄論 1.48

1.48

Eighth, explaining the catuṣkoṭi as transcended. Previously it was explained that although transcended, the catuṣkoṭi is clearly present; now it is explained that although the catuṣkoṭi is transcendent, all are completely transcended. This is like the devī questioning Śāriputra: 'You merely know that liberation has no words, but have not yet realized that words are themselves liberation.' Therefore, when the teaching fills the ten directions, that is precisely the catuṣkoṭi being constantly transcended; hence we explain the catuṣkoṭi as transcended. Question: Why distinguish this meaning? Answer: Speaking on the basis of conditions, the former plucked out their emotional attachments, while this now puts an end to their stirred thoughts. Subhūti said: 'I have nothing to discuss, up to not speaking a single word.' The *Prajñā[pāramitā]* states, 'If one says that the Tathāgata has taught any Dharma, that is slandering the Buddha.' Such statements all speak of dharmatā without destroying conventional names; therefore we explain the catuṣkoṭi as transcended.