金剛般若經依天親菩薩論贊略釋秦本義記卷上 1.6

1.6

Fifth, concerning directly explaining the text and its meaning, there are two parts: first, explaining the sūtra title; second, outlining the text and explaining its meaning.

First, explaining the title: in the sūtra, "Vajra" brings forth the gem serving as the metaphor. Being the hardest of metals, it is named vajra (diamond). This jewel is extraordinarily superior and has numerous varieties; here we briefly take its two meanings of hardness and sharpness. Hardness pertains to its essence, while sharpness pertains to its function. Because its essence is hard, things cannot destroy it; because its function is sharp, it can destroy all things. "Prajñā" is the dharma illustrated by the metaphor. In Sanskrit it is prajñā; here it is translated as pure wisdom, also called markless knowledge. The three kinds of knowledge are precisely called wisdom. Such wisdom is identical to that vajra. "Pāra" is Sanskrit; it is translated here as "shore." There are two kinds of shores: first, this shore; second, the other shore. "Mita" is Sanskrit; it is translated here as "able to reach," and also "able to leave." That is to say, the saṃsāra of the three realms is this shore; bodhi and nirvāṇa are the other shore; the afflictions of the two hindrances are the middle stream; and the wondrous function of prajñā is the raft. Therefore, those who generate the resolve board the boat of wondrous function, abandon the shore of saṃsāra, cross the ocean of afflictions, and ascend the mountain of nirvāṇa. For this reason, it is called pāramitā. "Sūtra" has the meaning of stringing together and holding together: that is, stringing together the meanings that should be expounded and holding together the sentient beings to be transformed. The preceding seven characters are that which is expressed; the final single character is that which expresses. It includes that which expresses, that which is expressed, the dharma, the metaphor, and so forth; therefore, it is titled "Vajracchedikā Prajñāpāramitā Sūtra." The explanation of the title is concluded above. From here on below, the sūtra text will be outlined and analyzed.