維摩經義記卷第四 4.52

4.52

The third [section] is from "With the sword of wisdom" down to "with great vigor vanquishing all māra armies," which explains what is eliminated. Above, having distinguished the fruit to reveal the three kinds of superior matters, if one does not eliminate the two encumbrances of cause and fruit, there is no way they can be obtained; therefore, it is explained next. "With the sword of wisdom destroying the thieves of kleśa": This is the causal encumbrance. Kleśas can rob people of the wealth of goodness, just like thieves; the wisdom of contemplating emptiness can destroy kleśas, hence it is said to be like a sword. "Transcending the skandhas, dhātus, and āyatanas": Eliminating the two māras of the skandhas and death—this is the fruitional encumbrance. "Bearing the burden of sentient beings, causing them to be liberated forever": Having freed oneself from encumbrances, one is further able to bear the burden of sentient beings, causing them to be liberated forever from the two encumbrances of cause and fruit. "With great vigor vanquishing the māra armies": The heavenly māra is the condition for giving rise to evil; hence by the practice of vigor, one is able to subdue him.