華嚴一乘教義分齊章 3.14

3.14

Question: 'Regarding the cultivating delusions of the two obscurations associated with the various consciousnesses, what similarities and differences are there in their active occurrences on the stages?' Answer: 'Within the afflictive obscuration, once the delusions of the sixth consciousness are exhausted—it is because they are exhausted that one retains them—therefore both their active occurrences and seeds are harnessed by gnosis, used to accomplish superior practices, and do not give rise to faults and perils. This is like a poisonous snake harnessed by the power of a mantra so that it is not killed, does not give rise to faults and perils, and accomplishes other functions. A bodhisattva's skillful retention of delusions is just like this. Hence the *Mahāyānasaṃgraha* says: "As harmed by the poison mantra," and so forth. Therefore, one should know that over those afflictions, whether active occurrences or seeds, one attains mastery in all respects. As for the afflictions of the seventh consciousness, because their nature does not moisten rebirth, they are not what is retained, and their active aspect is subtle. Below the seventh stage, they occasionally become active temporarily, because contemplative gnosis has interruptions. As for the cognitive obscuration, the delusions of subsequent stages arise on prior stages, whether as active occurrences or as seeds, because they are abandoned stage by stage in portions.'