起信論疏筆削記 13.24

13.24

From "If the mind..." downward matches the specific simile; matching them one by one to the simile makes it clear. Thus, when coarse defilements cease, subtle defilements do not cease; hence bodhisattvas of the eighth stage have not yet attained buddhahood. Only when avidyā is exhausted do subtle defilements become exhausted; hence from this point upward one cultivates and realizes the fruit of buddhahood, the principle being extremely clear.

Treatise: "Sentient beings" refers to sentient beings who depend upon the two marks of karmic activity and transforming. Thus, from the eighth stage upward, all are called sentient beings based on karmic activity and transforming; now, if the essence of mind were to cease, sentient beings would have no support, and hence they would be severed. Furthermore, the two marks of karmic activity and transforming are themselves sentient beings, as stated earlier: "Because sentient beings evolve depending on mind, intent, and consciousness."