大乘起信論略述 2.70

2.70

[Treatise:] Furthermore, there is no characteristic of function that can be grasped ... thus it is spoken of as function.
[Exposition:] This clarifies that function is free from characteristics. 'Furthermore, there is no characteristic of function that can be grasped' states that it is without characteristics. 'Why is this?' questions the meaning of being without characteristics. The Buddha is endowed with the trikāya and manifests various characteristics; how can one say there are no characteristics of function? The intention of the answer below says: if we set aside the responsiveness to receptive capacities, the Tathāgata is solely the wonderful principle, fundamental wisdom, and the supreme ultimate meaning, having no further characteristics of arising, ceasing, and so forth in transformation bodies. It merely functions according to conditions; function is itself non-function. Function being non-function is like water being waves: while functioning, it is constantly tranquil. Thus it says: 'all Buddhas are solely the dharmakāya, free from deliberate action,' and so forth. Although the real principle and wonderful wisdom are fundamentally ever-serene, conforming to the receptivity of capacities, responsive benefits and functions are boundless. While tranquil, it constantly functions; thus it says: 'merely according to sentient beings obtaining benefit is it spoken of as function,' and so forth.