諸經要集 3.84

3.84

Second, mindfulness of the Dharma: the Dharma is the undefiled path, unconditioned and free of desire. The Buddha is the master of all dharmas; the Dharma is the master over the defilements. The Dharma produces the Buddhas; the Dharma gives birth to the path of the Buddhas. If so, why not first be mindful of the Dharma and afterwards be mindful of the Buddha? The answer is: though the Dharma is subtle and wondrous, none can know it. It is like a hidden treasure that exists everywhere, yet one must rely on an expert person to point out the location before one can deliver those who are destitute and impoverished. The Dharma is also like this: though the principle is abstruse and wondrous, without the Tathāgata it cannot be expounded. Therefore, buddhānusmṛti comes first, and praising the Dharma comes after.