四分比丘戒本疏 1.3

1.3

Being about to explain this text, it is differentiated into four gates: first, comprehensively examining all teachings; second, specifically analyzing this text; third, the origin and history of its transmission and translation; fourth, analyzing and explaining according to the text. First, as for the intent of comprehensively examining all teachings: although the gates of teaching are measureless, two meanings will briefly be discussed to instruct those who have not heard them. As for the two meanings: first, among the gates of the three trainings, the training in higher moral discipline ranks first, because it can establish the meaning of samādhi and prajñā. Hence the Yogācārabhūmi explains the three trainings, saying: 'Because it establishes samādhi, because it is that on which knowledge relies, and because it is the most supreme meaning.' The Bequeathed Teaching Sūtra says: 'Relying upon this moral discipline, one can give rise to all dhyāna-samādhis and the wisdom that extinguishes suffering.' The preface to the Vinaya says: 'Such is the hall of the true Dharma, adorned with the seven factors of awakening, with the prohibitory precepts as its steps, trodden by the worthy and the noble.' All share this meaning. Second, in the gate of the seven noble treasures, moral discipline ranks second because one leaves home and undertakes the prohibitory precepts through faith; therefore, after faith, the treasure of moral discipline is distinguished. When faith and moral discipline are perfected, one is capable of properly hearing the Dharma, and subsequently, by using renunciation and generosity to adorn the mind, hearing and renunciation are explained next; through this provision, reflection and cultivation are engendered, and reflection and cultivation spoken together are collectively called wisdom. Wisdom must sever evil, aided and accomplished by shame and remorse. Because these seven noble treasures provide for good dharmas, kings and thieves cannot rob them, and water and fire cannot harm them; being the most supreme among treasures, they are named thus.