佛祖統紀 3.35

3.35

Regarding "teachings": this has the sense of explaining principles to convert beings; it is the discourse of the sage applied to those below. The four teachings of converting methods are the Tathāgata's modalities for converting beings, hence compared to medical prescriptions. The four teachings of converting doctrines are the regulations by which sentient beings eliminate afflictions, hence compared to medicinal flavours. The principles underlying the four teachings of converting methods and the like are none other than tripiṭaka, common, separate, and perfect. Although generally called teachings, in reality they have no other distinct substance.