法界次第初門 1.269

1.269

Fourth is the attainment of the base of neither-conceptualization-nor-non-conceptualization. If one abandons conceptualizations of the two extremes to enter meditative absorption, it is called the attainment of neither-conceptualization-nor-non-conceptualization. The practitioner reviles conceptualization in the base of nothingness as like dullness, and having conceptualization as like a boil or an ulcer; there being yet another meditative absorption named the base of neither-conceptualization-nor-non-conceptualization, they immediately abandon the base of nothingness, focusing mindfully on the phenomenon of neither conceptualization nor non-conceptualization. When the mind is associated with the phenomenon of neither conceptualization nor non-conceptualization, this is the attainment of the base of neither-conceptualization-nor-non-conceptualization. It is also said: ordinary persons and non-Buddhists who attain this meditative absorption claim that they have realized nirvāṇa and severed all conceptualization, which is why it is called 'neither-conceptualization'; disciples of the Buddha know in accordance with reality that subtle conceptualization remains, abiding in reliance upon the four aggregates [of mental factors], which is why it is called 'nor-non-conceptualization'. The name is established by combining the attainment and the shortcoming; hence it is called the attainment of the base of neither-conceptualization-nor-non-conceptualization. The brief explanation of the twelve gates of dhyāna of the three realms finds its culmination here.