宗鏡錄 100.75

100.75

Answer: "In terms of the supreme meaning, there is no benefit and no merit. Approaching it within the conventional gate, there seems to be praise. In all, there are two paths that can aid beginners: First, for those who do not yet have faith, it causes them to achieve right faith, gathering them back to the single thought, no longer seeking externally. Second, for those who already have faith, it assists in perfecting the power of contemplation, making principle and practice steadfast, so that they swiftly realize bodhi. Step by step, they do not linger on the progress toward the jewel place; thought after thought, they flow into the ocean of sarvajñā. It is like riding a vast carriage, instantly arriving at the jewel city; like steering a sturdy boat, serenely ascending the shore of awakening."