起信論疏筆削記 10.34

10.34

Second, the answer, which has three parts: first, explaining in terms of a single Buddha. "Because ignorance..." is as in the text. Saying that original enlightenment constantly gives rise to function has two meanings: first, explaining in terms of internal permeation, which is the meaning of the permeation of its own essence and attributes; hence it says below: "From beginningless time it possesses pure dharmas and is fully equipped with the nature of inconceivable activity as spheres of experience; relying on these two meanings, it constantly permeates, etc." Second, explaining in terms of response and transformation: that the response and transformation do not arise is only because delusional defilement covers them; it does not mean that original enlightenment lacks this functioning of response, nor does it mean that an obstinate mind suppresses it and makes it not arise. In this case, the fault lies in delusion; why blame enlightenment? Indeed, just as the bamboo of Mount Kun possesses the sounds of dragons and phoenixes, and a dusty mirror possesses the function of illumination, if one cuts the former or polishes away the dust with a sharp tool, why worry that the elegant rhythm and brilliant clarity will not be revealed?