法界次第初門 2.40

2.40

The reason why the eight liberations are explained after the ten notions is that the preceding nine notions and ten notions are gateways of contemplation that counteract through the destruction of dharmas; thus, they are horizontally limited and vertically narrow, and as counteractive concentrated contemplations, the various dhyānas are not yet fully equipped. If one were to realize the noble fruition, one would lack the great merits such as the three knowledges and the eight liberations. Wishing now to fully elucidate all untainted antidotes and the dhyāna-concentrations of contemplation, refinement, permeation, and cultivation, they are therefore explained next. If one cultivates this contemplation and refines the various dhyāna-concentrations, then upon realizing the noble fruition, one becomes an arhat of great power, fully equipped with merits such as the six superknowledges, the three knowledges, the eight liberations, the knowledge-by-vow summit dhyāna, and the samādhi of non-disputation. As for these eight being collectively called 'liberations' (turning the back and casting off), the *Mahāprajñāpāramitopadeśa* states: "'Turning the back' means turning one's back on the pure and pleasing five desires; 'casting off' means casting off the mind of attachment; hence they are named 'liberations'." If one gives rise to true untainted wisdom and exhausts the bonds and karma of the three realms, that is called liberation.