西方合論 4.8

4.8

Explanation: "Because their regression from the great had lasted so long and their habituation to the small was so deep, that Buddha spoke the small according to their habits, temporarily enabling them to realize the fruit. Moreover, those who realize the small fruit do not abide resting in the small stage; they again arouse the great mind and advance with even greater speed, attaining the initial bhūmi in five or ten kalpas. Such gradations are still extraordinary, and therefore not the same. It is also said: In the sūtra there is also Bimbisāra realizing the fruit of anāgāmin, yet he is not the primary recipient intended by this teaching. Since it is currently expounded primarily for Vaidehī and others to teach the Pure Land contemplations, it is not even the shared or distinct [teachings], how could it be the Hīnayāna? Just as when Śākyamuni appeared in the world, there were also śrāvakas; ultimately, the Mahāyāna is the principal, because carts drawn by sheep or deer are not the true carts."