宗鏡錄 15.5

15.5

Answer: If one purely seizes upon the supernormal powers of phenomenal signs, it contradicts the true purport. As the Fuxing ji says: 'If one who cultivates samādhi suddenly develops supernormal powers, one must quickly cast them aside, because they are contaminated phenomena and false.' Therefore the Zhiguan says: 'They can obstruct prajñā.' Why is this? The prajñā of sarvākārajñatā naturally possesses all phenomena and can eliminate all signs. Before one possesses it, one should merely settle in principle; why is there any need for phenomenal supernormal powers? If one focuses exclusively on supernormal powers, this obstructs principle. Furthermore, not only does it obstruct principle, but one also brings misfortune upon oneself, as in the cases of the followers of Udra[karāmaputra] and Shengyi. What is called genuine supernormal transformation is nothing other than expounding the gateway of the One Vehicle and speaking of the principle of non-production. With a single word one accords with the Way, realizing nirvāṇa right within birth and death; upon a glance one illumines the source, achieving correct enlightenment right within worldly defilements. In a single kṣaṇa one transforms from an ordinary person into a sage; in an instant one alters existence to return to emptiness. How could such functioning not be a supernormal transformation? Therefore the Ratnakūṭa Sūtra says: 'Mañjuśrī said to the Buddha: "World-Honoured One, preaching the Dharma is the great supernormal transformation."' For those of low and inferior capacities, the great compassion of the buddhas does not abandon them: as a temporary skillful means, yellow leaves are used to stop crying. As the Vimalakīrtinirdeśasūtra says: 'By means of the supernormal powers, they graciously transform foolish and deluded sentient beings.' For people of the highest capacities, they are only made to contemplate the true mark of the body, and contemplating the Buddha is also like this.