天台八教大意 1.30

1.30

Fifth, clarifying the ten stages: these are the noble disposition. Realizing the contemplation of the Middle Way, they are therefore called noble. [They are:] 1. Joyful; 2. Free of defilement; 3. Luminous; 4. Radiant; 5. Difficult to conquer; 6. Directly manifesting; 7. Far-reaching; 8. Immovable; 9. Wholesome wisdom; 10. Dharma cloud. These ten stages sever ten grades of ignorance beyond the realms; severing one more grade, one enters virtual enlightenment; severing one more grade, one enters wondrous enlightenment. From beginning to end, one only severs twelve grades of ignorance, which is merely equal to the second practice of the perfect teaching. Making my cause your fruit, where the teaching is expedient but the rank is designated high, it is like when the borders are not yet pacified, a high title is used to determine rank and assess merit, but the actual office is low.