佛祖統紀 3.48

3.48

Regarding 'sequential arrangement' (xingbu cidi): there are seven locations and eight assemblies, hence 'everywhere'. Arranging and setting forth the ranks and stages from shallow to deep, it is called 'sequential arrangement'. What this sūtra expounds has two aspects: harmonious fusion and sequential arrangement. The *Shigian* states: 'The stages of practice explained at the assembly places of the *Huayan* do not exceed the Distinct and the Perfect. However, the intent of the sūtra contains many nuances, making it difficult to judge definitively. From before the abodes up to mounting the grounds, it is entirely the meaning of the Perfect. From the second abode to the seventh abode, the textual sequence seems like the meaning of the Distinct again. Within the seventh abode, it also distinguishes the unimpeded mutual identity of one and many. The subsequent practices, dedications, and grounds are again the meaning of differentiated sequence. Furthermore, every single stage possesses both the Samantabhadra [fusion] and the sequential arrangement doors. Hence we know it concurrently uses texts of the Perfect to guide and receive.'