大乘起信論略述 1.92

1.92

[Treatise:] "As for the phase of pure cognition… because of fulfilling the expedient means."

Commentary: Next, the third part distinguishes the phases according to their names. Herein are two parts: first, explaining the phase of pure cognition; second, revealing the phase of inconceivable activity. Within the [discussion of] cognition are two parts: first, directly explaining the pure phase; second, a question-and-answer to resolve doubts. Within the first are also two parts: first the cause, then the fruition. This is the first. That is, in the stages prior to the bhūmis, through the power of inner perfuming based on the phenomenon of tathatā and the power of outer hearing and perfuming from the teachings flowing forth [from it], one is able to cultivate the good roots of provisions and preparatory application; hence it says "perfumed by the power of the Dharma." When one ascends to the bhūmi stages and verifies tathatā, whenever one gives rise to practices, one cultivates them based on the real; hence it says "practicing in accordance with reality." Gradually cultivating the practices of the ten stages up to the vajra stage, when causal practices are perfected, it is termed "fulfilling the expedient means."