維摩經疏卷第三．第六 3.25

3.25

Regarding the third part explaining the reason: first it questions, then explains. As for 'The reason I say I am not worthy to inquire after his illness is what?': from 'Recalling...' onward, it broadly explains the reason. In this there are two parts: first, stating the previous event of being admonished; second, from 'At that time, Vimalakīrti...' downward, clarifying the characteristics of the merits and faults of his teaching and admonition. In the former, 'begging in poor neighborhoods' has four meanings: first, Kāśyapa originally acted out of a compassionate mind, practicing dhūta to benefit sentient beings; because the poor had not previously cultivated merit, incurring this bitter retribution, he now begged from the poor to cause them to leave the suffering of poverty. Second, Kāśyapa was a great śrāvaka who attained nirodha-samāpatti, and those who made offerings to him all obtained present retribution; now pitying their long-term suffering, he therefore begged from them. Third, the wealthy are arrogant and extravagant, difficult to transform, whereas the poor receive guidance and are easy to follow. Fourth, if he begged from the rich, there would be suspicion of fame and gain; now begging from the poor, he kept in mind the practice of few desires; therefore he begged from the poor.