天台菩薩戒疏 2.15

2.15

First, the eleventh precept, against conveying state missions. Passing along communications back and forth is called conveying state missions. 'Mission' (命) means an envoy (使); carrying out the command of a superior is called serving as an envoy. In principle, a bodhisattva should quiet conditions and advance in their practice, harmonizing disputes and cherishing compassionate rescue. Now, instead, to convey envoys to the four quarters and join in battle already constitutes wrong livelihood and thoroughly contradicts the demeanor of the Way; therefore it is instituted. It specifically comprises four conditions: first, two countries and two armies; second, for the sake of material gain, etc.; third, transmitting words between them; fourth, the two countries joining in battle; whereupon one commits an offense. The text has two parts: first, designating the person and listing the fault. 'Raising an army' (興師, pronounced suolei) refers to generals and commanders. Next, from 'yet a bodhisattva' onward, it adduces the comparison and concludes the offense. 'State bandits' refers to bringing people together to kill one another, which is identical in meaning to bandits.