大乘起信論略述 1.10

1.10

[Treatise:] "The treatise states: There is a teaching that can awaken... therefore it should be explained." / [Exposition:] Next, the second part clarifies the main doctrine section. It has two parts: first, stating the response and accepting to explain; second, directly expounding what is to be explained. This is the first. / The words "The treatise states" distinguish the treatise from sūtras, identifying the teaching that is the explicator. / "There is a teaching..." adduces the Dharma that is explicated, showing that it possesses conditions and benefits. / "Therefore it should be explained" reveals that the explicating teaching ought to be spoken in accordance with the Dharma. That is to say, because the explicating teaching possesses these explicated dharmas—such as the one mind, the two aspects, and the three greatnesses—which can awaken the root of Mahāyāna faith in sentient beings, this explicating teaching definitely should be spoken. / "Mahāyāna faith" means having faith in one's own nature, knowing that when the mind stirs deludedly, there are no objective realms before it. This faith is definitive, and it can sustain and develop both one's own and others' good roots; hence it is called the "root of faith."