金光明最勝王經疏 5.35

5.35

"Chapter on the Four Heavenly Kings Protecting the Country" is analyzed through three gateways: first, the reason for its introduction; second, explaining the title; third, resolving difficulties. As for the reason for its introduction: The preceding chapter praised the sublime excellence of the sūtra and encouraged others to propagate and uphold it. These three chapters below explain that the sūtra is worthy of reverence and its practitioners obtain protection: first, protection by gods; and next, two chapters on protection by dhāraṇī. Furthermore, in the preceding chapter the four kings encouraged others, whereas in this chapter they vow to protect it themselves. The preceding chapter instructed others to practice the two benefits, whereas this chapter explains their own practice of the two benefits. In the preceding chapter they encouraged upholding it of their own accord, whereas in this chapter the Buddha encourages broad protection. Therefore, this chapter arises following the preceding chapter.