四教義 12.13

12.13

Second, directly clarifying the use of the four teachings to comprehensively explain this sūtra: what is termed the literal and doctrinal meaning comprises two points: first, explaining the five meanings of the sūtra; second, comprehensively explaining the text of the sūtra. Regarding the first, explaining the five meanings of this sūtra: as previously explained regarding the name 'Vimalakīrti' according to the stages of the four teachings, the name is one but the meanings differ. Next, distinguishing the substance: what the three teachings elucidate is the substance of conceivable liberation, while what the perfect teaching clarifies is inconceivable liberation. Next, clarifying the principle: it is the four teachings clarifying the causes and fruits of the four kinds of four truths, bringing about different Buddha-lands. Next, revealing the function: it is the four teachings proceeding from shallow to deep, successively rebuking the shallow with the deep. Next, classifying the doctrinal characteristics: this sūtra fully clarifies the four teachings, sharing similarities and differences with various sūtras, as distinguished previously.