金光明最勝王經疏 2.5

2.5

Second, regarding causing the attainment of bodhi: the fundamental intention of all buddhas appearing in the world is to cause sentient beings to obtain the fruit of bodhi. The fruit is not obtained in vain; it must rely on the cause of practice. The cause relies on the objective sphere to arise, and only then is practice established. If the fruit is not explained first, one cannot inspire an aspiring mind. Once an aspiring mind has arisen, one then vows to cultivate practice; having instructed them to cultivate practice, the objective sphere is explained next. Previously, the rationale was stated, and the assembly all thirsted and yearned to hear the sūtra; as the World-Honoured One formally sets forth the main principle, he first expounds ‘The Lifespan of the Tathāgata’, wishing to cause the hearers to realize and attain bodhi. Hence it is stated directly below: ‘Wishing to benefit these ordinary beings and the assemblies of non-Buddhists and such classes of beings, causing them to give rise to correct understanding and quickly achieve unsurpassed bodhi.’ Therefore, after ‘The Introductory Chapter’, this chapter arises.