法界次第初門 1.142

1.142

The reason why the three poisons are distinguished next after views and craving is that since these two categories have the difference of being combined or separated, they must be differentiated. If combined, one merely takes one portion of delusion as views, and the remaining portion along with greed and anger are combined into craving. If separated, then within views and craving there are each the three poisons; tracking them in this way through the three realms and the five stages of practice, they separate out into ninety-eight anuśayas. The reason why all afflictions are collectively called 'poisons' is that 'poison' has the meaning of sinking poison, which vexes and destroys severely; hence it is called 'sinking poison.' Because they can destroy the wholesome mind that transcends the world, they are called poisons.