法界次第初門 2.144

2.144

The explanation of the thirty-seven aids to awakening following the twofold emptiness of persons and dharmas is because if one enters the path by contemplating the two emptinesses, one must also skillfully understand the gradations of the aids to awakening. If one studies to become a noble one based on the gate of existence, one must definitely rely on the contemplation of the emptiness of sentient beings to cultivate the thirty-seven dharmas. If one uses equanimity to sever delusions, one should pass through the emptiness of dharmas and practice the gate of the aids to awakening. Hence they are explained following the two emptinesses. They are universally called 'aids to the path' (bodhipakṣa): 'path' (mārga) has the same meaning as before; 'aids' (parivāra / categories) means classes and varieties. Because these seven headings of teachings are all categories of depth in entering the path, they are called aids to the path.