起信論疏筆削記 5.15

5.15

Commentary: "This section" and so forth: the intention behind the launching of the entire treatise is simply for sentient beings to leave suffering and attain bliss; this is explaining the causes and conditions in general marks. Furthermore, whatever the various bodhisattvas undertake, it is always for sentient beings to leave suffering and attain bliss; this is not only the launching cause for this single treatise, but serves as the launching cause for all treatises, which is why it is called "general marks." "Generally applies to both secondary and primary": this is explained in terms of the intended capacities; it secondarily covers those of determinedly right and determinedly wrong dispositions, and primarily covers those of undetermined disposition; now, since they are treated together, it is said to "generally apply." "Specifically for the primary audience": first, because the seven passages below are addressed to distinct capacities—such as the second and third among the seven being for the determinedly right, and the rest for the undetermined disposition, hence called "specifically for"; second, because they are only for the capacities of the two dispositions and do not cover those of determinedly wrong disposition, hence called "specifically for." This is not like this passage, which is generally for all, causing everyone to leave suffering and attain ultimate bliss. Thus, in terms of Dharma, it initiates all treatises; in terms of capacities, it benefits and gladdens all kinds [of beings]; for this reason it is called the general mark of causes and conditions.