法苑珠林 99.9

99.9

Second: 'Rely on the meaning and not on the words.' Words are verbal speech, which is precisely setting up the fish trap; meaning is arriving at principle, the way of transforming beings. After direct realisation and comprehension, thoughts are cut off and speech is halted. If even the Dharma should be relinquished, how much more so what is not the Dharma? Therefore, the sūtra contains the parable of abandoning the raft, and people cherish discussions where [the truth] is seen at a glance. Do not fail to grasp the meaning beyond the snare of words; having grasped the meaning, cease speech. When the finger pointing to the moon is understood, there is nothing that should not be comprehended. What is now called 'grasping the meaning' is merely reciting words. True practitioners of the Way constantly contemplate and constantly deconstruct: constantly contemplating relies on words, and constantly deconstructing accords with the meaning. Saying that words accord with the meaning is still merely reciting words. It is only because of beginningless false habits that stubborn attachments are firmly set. Only through quiet withdrawal and detailed investigation does one come to recognise this fault. Otherwise, rushing about and pursuing sounds will fall short. This too should be contemplated.