起信論疏筆削記 16.33

16.33

First, the direct reconciliation of hidden doubts: harmonizing with the Buddha's intention in order to resolve doubts and difficulties. This doubt is not explicitly stated; there is only the explanatory text, hidden and unmanifest, hence it is called a "hidden doubt." The commentary says: "Detached from nature": because there is no fundamental nature. Since the fundamental nature is non-existent, what mark could there be? Like the previous text on what is detached from, therefore a sūtra says: "All marks whatsoever are empty and deceptive." "Various verbal explanations": this refers to the previous text manifesting the correct meaning. "Provisional words, etc.": like using a raft to cross a river, the intention is not on the raft. Because the sentient beings of this land all enter samādhi through hearing, contemplation, and cultivation, it is necessary to use sounds to perform the Buddha's work. Therefore a sūtra says: "The true doctrinal essence of this realm / lies purely in the hearing of sounds; / wishing to attain samādhi, / one truly enters through hearing." Another sūtra also says: "The dhāraṇī has no letters; the Buddha expresses it with letters."