成唯識論了義燈 3.25

3.25

Second, the distinction between the imagined and dependent natures: if it is the imagined nature, its substance is like an illusory sky-flower and cannot be said to serve as the characteristics of the conditioned; the same applies to permanence and impermanence. If it is the dependent nature, because it exists depending on conditions, it is an impermanent characteristic. Therefore, the Madhyamakaśāstra, Chapter One on the Three Characteristics, states: "Are these three characteristics conditioned, being able to serve as the characteristics of the conditioned; or are they unconditioned, being able to serve as the characteristics of the conditioned? Neither is admissible. Why? If arising were conditioned, it would possess the three characteristics; if arising were unconditioned, how could it be called a characteristic of the conditioned, and so forth?"