維摩經疏卷第三．第六 6.47

6.47

Regarding this chapter, the text is divided into three sections: first, explaining the rationale for its occurrence; second, explaining the chapter title; third, interpreting the meaning of the text. Explaining the rationale for its occurrence: the previous "Chapter on the Bodhisattva Practice" fully cultivated superior causes; this [chapter] speaks of "seeing the Buddha," clarifying the attainment of the fruit through causes. The causes coming first and the fruit after is the doctrinal sequence. Alternatively, the previous chapter benefited through transformation the visiting bodhisattvas from Sarvagandhasugandhā, while this chapter benefits through transformation the assembly of this world, who behold the pure [realm], generate the aspiration [for awakening], and are born in the realm of Akṣobhya (Immovable). Possessing such meanings, it must therefore be explained. Explaining the chapter title: "seeing" has two kinds. If considered with respect to the assembly of that time, with their physical eyes they saw the physical form of the transformation body of that Immovable Tathāgata, the Buddha. "A" means non- (wu); "kṣobhya" means shaking (dong); "Buddha" means awakened. Now preserving the Sanskrit text, it is titled "Chapter on the Buddha Akṣobhya." If explained according to Vimalakīrti, "seeing the Buddha": "seeing" is Vimalakīrti's wisdom accordant with reality; "Buddha" is the equal dharmakāya that is realized. Its essence has no coming or going, hence it is called "Immovable." "Buddha" is as usually explained. This clarifies that Vimalakīrti previously saw Śākyamuni and subsequently saw Akṣobhya; naming it after the latter, it is therefore called "Chapter on Seeing the Buddha Akṣobhya." According to the Vimalakīrtinirdeśa Sūtra, it is called the "Chapter on Contemplating the Tathāgata."