摩訶止觀 1.9

1.9

Tiantai transmitted three kinds of calming and contemplation from Nanyue: first, the gradual; second, the indeterminate; third, the perfect and sudden. All are Mahāyāna, all take true reality as their object, and all are equally named calming and contemplation. The "gradual" is shallow at first and deep later, like climbing stairs. The "indeterminate" alternates earlier and later, like a diamond jewel placed in the sun. The "perfect and sudden" is non-dual from beginning to end, like one with supernormal powers soaring into the empty sky. For three faculties and natures, three Dharma gates are expounded and three analogies are cited. The brief explanation is finished; now to explain them extensively.