梵網經古迹記 2.35

2.35

Commentary: This is the second [section, on] the Dharma. Here, "brilliance upon brilliance" refers to the various precepts, taking its name from the metaphorical auspicious signs. Although the precepts are categorized as form, they are neither visible colors nor shapes, because they are established on the basis of the determination of wholesome volition. Because they lack physical obstruction, they are "not form"; because they are without cognitive deliberation, they are "not mind"; because they are not apart from conditions, they are "not existent"; because they are not identical with conditions, they are "not non-existent." Because they are not existent, they are "not phenomena of cause and effect"; because they are not non-existent, they are the "original source of all buddhas." Being the original source of all buddhas, they are the "root of the bodhisattvas." Because they serve as the root for cause and effect, on this account they are also the root for the assembly at this time. Therefore, sons of the Buddha first receive them, and later uphold, recite, learn, and study their meaning.