法苑珠林 68.26

68.26

Question: Why is it not explained which karmas definitively have or do not have the characteristics of manifest action, non-manifest action, and unmanifest action? Answer: Except for sexual misconduct, the other six karmas are all variable. What is the meaning of this? If one does it oneself, one accomplishes manifest karma and unmanifest karma. If one causes another to do it, there is only non-manifest action; there cannot be manifest action. In sexual misconduct, there is definitely manifest action; there cannot be non-manifest action. Why? Because this sexual misconduct is ultimately done by oneself; there is no causing another to do it. Therefore the sūtra asks: 'Can one accomplish the sin of taking life through an action that is not bodily?' It answers: 'Yes, just as when one verbally commands another to commit it, one accomplishes the sin of killing.'