法界次第初門 2.4

2.4

Next to the dhyānas of transparent contemplation, the nine notions are explained because although the dhyānas explained above possess concentration and wisdom, they are merely factual contemplations. As they do not yet possess contemplations of experiential realization, their antidotal power is weak. From the nine notions onward, all the dhyāna concentrations explained possess contemplations of experiential realization, and their power and function in remedying the severe disease of afflictions are strong. It is like felling a hard tree: if one uses a dull axe and cuts without severing it, one should take a stronger axe. Since the nine notions are the beginning of contemplations of experiential realization, they are explained next. These nine are collectively called notions because they can transform the mind and transform notions; hence they are called notions. That is, because they can transform the inverted notions of impurity, these nine dharmas are all called notions.