法苑珠林 9.84

9.84

Furthermore, the *New Mahāvibhāṣā-śāstra* asks: What is the meaning of 'mark' (*lakṣaṇa*)? It answers: The meaning of a sign or emblem is the meaning of 'mark'. The meaning of being supremely distinguished is the meaning of 'mark'. The meaning of an auspicious omen is the meaning of 'mark'. Question: Why are the marks of a Great Person only thirty-two, neither increasing nor decreasing? The Venerable Pārśva stated: Whether increasing or decreasing, both would give rise to doubt without violating the characteristics of dharmas. Saying that there are thirty-two is what is mutually accepted in the world as having an auspicious meaning, and the number neither increases nor decreases. If the thirty-two marks adorn the Buddha's body, then in the world it is supreme and incomparable. If they were reduced, power would be deficient; if they were further increased, it would be disorderly and confused. Neither would be extraordinarily sublime. Therefore there are only these thirty-two marks of a Great Person.