法界圖記叢髓錄 2.52

2.52

The Great Record says: Regarding the earlier and later meanings in the sixth question-and-answer: in terms of the phrase 'phenomena can also be correctly spoken', above is the earlier meaning and below is the later meaning. Regarding 'root and branch being identical, etc.': the root is the Buddha and the One Vehicle; the branch is sentient beings, the Hīnayāna, and the three vehicles. These are all the true virtues and functions within the house of dharmatā. Regarding 'name and meaning being mutual guests': all phenomena do not go beyond name and meaning. For those who resolutely cling to a self-nature of name and meaning, it reveals the principle that they are mutual guests and have no self-nature. The true source whose own substance is nameless is precisely the realization aspect, and concurrently the distinct teaching of pratītyasamutpāda non-abiding. Question: 'The true source is revealed by the mutual dependence of root and branch, and is thus deep. Although the root of mutual dependence is said to be realization, is it still shallow?' Answer: 'This is merely spoken tentatively in accordance with the three vehicles; in terms of reality, they are identical to the single place. Using this Middle Way to transform sentient beings is ultimately precisely the One Vehicle; therefore it says that the essential purport of that which transforms and that which is transformed lies here.'