大乘起信論略述 1.79

1.79

論。始覺義者至說名始覺　述曰。此略明始覺也。始覺者。牒其名也。依本覺故有心者明記始覺之所由也。依不覺故說有始覺者。正顯所起始覺之義。謂即本覺真淨心體隨無明緣動作妄念故。依本覺有不覺也。而以本覺內熏力故漸有微覺起厭求等乃至究竟還同本覺故。依不覺有始覺也。

[Treatise:] "Regarding the meaning of initial awakening: […] is called initial awakening." [Commentary:] This briefly explains initial awakening. "Initial awakening" reiterates its name. "Because it relies on original awakening, there is [the deluded] mind" clarifies the origin of initial awakening. "Because it relies on non-awakening, it is said that there is initial awakening" directly reveals the meaning of the arising of initial awakening. That is, the true and pure mind-essence of original awakening, following the condition of avidyā, stirs to act as deluded thoughts; therefore, relying on original awakening, there is non-awakening. And through the power of internal perfuming of original awakening, a slight awakening gradually arises, giving rise to aversion and seeking [liberation], up until, reaching the ultimate, it is once again identical to original awakening; therefore, relying on non-awakening, there is initial awakening.