法界圖記叢髓錄 1.140

1.140

Zhen's Record says: As for the so-called six characteristics, the general meaning here is that Vairocana Buddha is the most supremely exalted, while we sentient beings are the most lowly. Vairocana is the universal characteristic; sentient beings are the particular characteristic. The bodies of sentient beings have no separate self-substance; they are entirely accomplished with Vairocana's body. Yet showing the two here indicates their respective meanings: not being other, it is said not to arise; not being one, it is said to arise. Thus Kangzang says: "The branches rely upon the root; there is arising and non-arising." The identical characteristic: in terms of the bodies of sentient beings having no other thing and being solely the Buddha's body, the bodies of sentient beings carry that Buddha. The distinct characteristic: although the bodies of sentient beings carry that Buddha's body, they do not move from being the carrier, remaining constantly sentient beings. In terms of the meaning of carrying, it is said there is identity; in terms of the meaning of sentient beings, it is said there is distinction. Thus Kangzang says: "Since those arisen branches carry the root, when viewed in relation to one another there is identity and distinction." The integrating characteristic: the lowly bodies of sentient beings are precisely the exalted Buddha's body; when there is not the slightest bit of difference from the Buddha's body, it does not make them identical to that. The contemplation of identical characteristic makes them identical to that; the contemplation of integrating characteristic is precisely being one. The disintegrating characteristic: the distinct phenomena of the dharmadhātu each do not move; this is precisely the real quality and function within the bodies of sentient beings, whose nature lies in the middle way. Being precisely one, it is said there is preservation; each not moving, it is said there is disintegration. Thus Kangzang says: "Since those branches carrying the root are subsumed by the root, in their very substance there is preservation and disintegration."