第四分不退相品第十七
Chapter 17: Characteristics of Non-Retrogression
爾時，善現復白佛言：「我等當以何行、狀、相，知是不退轉菩薩摩訶薩？」
At that time, Subhūti again addressed the Buddha, saying: 'By what conduct, characteristics, and signs should we recognize non-retrogressing bodhisattva-mahāsattvas?'
佛告善現：「若菩薩摩訶薩能如實知若異生地、若聲聞地、若獨覺地、若菩薩地、若如來地，如是諸地雖說有異，而於諸法真如性中無變異、無分別，皆無二、無二分。是菩薩摩訶薩雖實悟入諸法真如，亦實安住諸法真如無所分別，以無所得為方便故。是菩薩摩訶薩既實悟入諸法真如，雖聞真如與一切法無二無別而無疑滯。是菩薩摩訶薩既實安住諸法真如，出真如已，雖聞諸法種種異相，而於其中無所執著亦無疑滯，不作是念：『此事如實，此不如實。』雖無此念，而於諸法能如實知。是菩薩摩訶薩終不輕爾而發語言，諸有所說皆引義利，若無義利終不發言。是菩薩摩訶薩終不觀他好惡長短，平等憐愍而為說法。若菩薩摩訶薩成就如是諸行、狀、相，定於無上正等菩提不復退轉。
The Buddha told Subhūti: 'If bodhisattva-mahāsattvas can truly know the grounds of ordinary beings, śrāvakas, pratyekabuddhas, bodhisattvas, and Tathāgatas—although these grounds are spoken of as different, within the suchness nature of all phenomena there is no change, no discrimination, all being without duality and without division. Such bodhisattva-mahāsattvas, although they truly enter into the suchness of all phenomena and truly abide in the suchness of all phenomena without discrimination, use non-attainment as their skillful means. Such bodhisattva-mahāsattvas, having truly entered into the suchness of all phenomena, even when hearing that suchness and all phenomena are without duality or difference, have no doubt or hesitation. Such bodhisattva-mahāsattvas, having truly abided in the suchness of all phenomena, when emerging from suchness, although hearing of the various different characteristics of phenomena, have no attachment to them and no doubt or hesitation, not thinking: "This matter is real, this is not real." Although they have no such thoughts, they can truly know all phenomena. Such bodhisattva-mahāsattvas never speak carelessly—all their words bring benefit and meaning; if there is no benefit or meaning, they never speak. Such bodhisattva-mahāsattvas never observe others' good or bad qualities, long or short points, but teach the Dharma with equal compassion. If bodhisattva-mahāsattvas achieve such conduct, characteristics, and signs, they are definitely non-retrogressing from unsurpassed perfect enlightenment.
「復次，善現！一切不退轉菩薩摩訶薩，終不樂觀外道沙門、婆羅門等形相言說。彼諸沙門、婆羅門等，於所知法實知實見，或能施設正見法門，無有是處。是菩薩摩訶薩終不禮敬諸餘天神，如諸世間外道所事，亦終不以種種花鬘、塗散等香、衣服、瓔珞、寶幢、幡蓋、伎樂、燈明供養天神及諸外道。若菩薩摩訶薩成就如是諸行、狀、相，定於無上正等菩提不復退轉。
'Furthermore, Subhūti! All non-retrogressing bodhisattva-mahāsattvas never delight in observing the forms, appearances, and words of heterodox śramaṇas, brahmins, and others. For those śramaṇas, brahmins, and others to truly know and truly see the knowable dharmas, or to be able to establish right view and Dharma teachings—this is impossible. Such bodhisattva-mahāsattvas never pay homage to various other deities as worldly heterodox practitioners do, nor do they make offerings to deities and heterodox practitioners with various flower garlands, perfumes and incense for anointing and scattering, clothing, ornaments, jeweled banners, flags and canopies, music, and lamps. If bodhisattva-mahāsattvas achieve such conduct, characteristics, and signs, they are definitely non-retrogressing from unsurpassed perfect enlightenment.
「復次，善現！一切不退轉菩薩摩訶薩，不墮惡趣，不受女身，亦不生於卑賤種族，除為度脫彼類有情現同類生方便攝受。是菩薩摩訶薩常樂受行十善業道，自離害生命乃至邪見，亦勸他離害生命乃至邪見，自受行十善業道，亦勸他受行十善業道，示現、勸導、讚勵、慶喜、攝受有情令其堅固。是菩薩摩訶薩乃至夢中亦不現行十惡業道，亦不現起惡不善心，乃至夢中亦常受學十善業道。若菩薩摩訶薩成就如是諸行、狀、相，定於無上正等菩提不復退轉。
'Furthermore, Subhūti! All non-retrogressing bodhisattva-mahāsattvas do not fall into evil destinies, do not receive female bodies, and are not born into lowly castes—except when, for the sake of liberating such beings, they skillfully manifest birth among them as expedient means of gathering them in. Such bodhisattva-mahāsattvas constantly delight in practicing the ten wholesome karmic paths, personally avoiding taking life up to wrong views, and also encouraging others to avoid taking life up to wrong views. They personally practice the ten wholesome karmic paths and also encourage others to practice the ten wholesome karmic paths, manifesting, encouraging, praising, rejoicing in, and gathering in sentient beings to make them firm. Such bodhisattva-mahāsattvas, even in dreams, do not manifest the ten unwholesome karmic paths, do not give rise to evil and unwholesome minds, and even in dreams constantly receive and study the ten wholesome karmic paths. If bodhisattva-mahāsattvas achieve such conduct, characteristics, and signs, they are definitely non-retrogressing from unsurpassed perfect enlightenment.
「復次，善現！一切不退轉菩薩摩訶薩，諸所受持、思惟、讀誦種種經典令極通利，皆為利樂一切有情，恒作是念：『我以此法為諸有情宣說開示，當令一切法願滿足。復持如是法施善根，與諸有情平等共有迴向無上正等菩提。』若菩薩摩訶薩成就如是諸行、狀、相，定於無上正等菩提不復退轉。
'Furthermore, Subhūti! All non-retrogressing bodhisattva-mahāsattvas, in all their receiving, upholding, contemplating, and reciting of various scriptures to achieve complete mastery, do so entirely for the benefit and happiness of all sentient beings, constantly thinking: "I will proclaim and reveal this Dharma for sentient beings, causing all their Dharma aspirations to be fulfilled. Furthermore, I will take such roots of virtue from Dharma giving and, sharing them equally with all sentient beings, dedicate them toward unsurpassed perfect enlightenment." If bodhisattva-mahāsattvas achieve such conduct, characteristics, and signs, they are definitely non-retrogressing from unsurpassed perfect enlightenment.
「復次，善現！一切不退轉菩薩摩訶薩，於佛所說甚深法門，終不生於疑惑、猶豫，亦不迷悶，歡喜信受；諸所發言皆為饒益，知量而說言詞柔軟；寢寐輕少煩惱不行，入出往來心不迷謬；恒時安住正念正知，進止威儀、行住坐臥、舉足下足亦復如是；諸所遊履必觀其地，安詳繫念直視而行，運動語言常無卒暴；諸所受用臥具、衣服皆常香潔無諸臭穢，亦無垢膩蟣虱等蟲；恒樂清淨常無疾病，身中無有八萬戶蟲。所以者何？是諸菩薩善根增上出過世間，如如善根漸漸增長，如是如是身心清淨。由此因緣，是諸菩薩身心堅固猶若金剛，不為違緣之所侵惱。若菩薩摩訶薩成就如是諸行、狀、相，定於無上正等菩提不復退轉。」
'Furthermore, Subhūti! All non-retrogressing bodhisattva-mahāsattvas, regarding the profound Dharma teachings spoken by the Buddha, never give rise to doubt, hesitation, confusion, or dejection, but joyfully believe and accept them. All their words are for the sake of benefit—they speak with proper measure and gentle words. Their sleep is light and few, afflictions do not arise, and their minds are not confused when entering, exiting, going, or coming. They constantly abide in right mindfulness and right awareness—their deportment in advancing and stopping, walking, standing, sitting, lying down, lifting and placing their feet is likewise. Wherever they travel they must observe the ground, walking calmly with concentrated mindfulness and direct gaze, their movements and speech constantly without suddenness or violence. All the bedding and clothing they use is constantly fragrant and clean without foul odors, and without filth, grease, lice, or other insects. They constantly delight in purity, are always free from illness, and have no eighty thousand types of parasites in their bodies. Why is this so? These bodhisattvas' roots of virtue are superior and transcend the world—as their roots of virtue gradually increase, so their bodies and minds become pure. Due to this cause and condition, these bodhisattvas' bodies and minds are firm like vajra, not troubled by adverse conditions. If bodhisattva-mahāsattvas achieve such conduct, characteristics, and signs, they are definitely non-retrogressing from unsurpassed perfect enlightenment.'
爾時，善現便白佛言：「是菩薩摩訶薩云何應知心常清淨？」
At that time, Subhūti addressed the Buddha: 'How should we know that such bodhisattva-mahāsattvas have constantly pure minds?'
佛告善現：「是菩薩摩訶薩如如善根漸漸增長，如是如是心中一切諂曲、矯誑皆永不行。由此因緣，一切煩惱及餘不善皆永息滅，亦超聲聞及獨覺地，疾趣無上正等菩提，是故應知心常清淨。
The Buddha told Subhūti: 'As the roots of virtue of such bodhisattva-mahāsattvas gradually increase, so all flattery and deception in their minds permanently cease to function. Due to this cause and condition, all afflictions and other unwholesome states are permanently extinguished, they transcend the śrāvaka and pratyekabuddha grounds, and quickly proceed toward unsurpassed perfect enlightenment. Therefore, you should know their minds are constantly pure.
「復次，善現！一切不退轉菩薩摩訶薩，不重利養、不徇名譽，心離嫉慳、身無愆失，於諸飲食、衣服、臥具、醫藥、資財不生耽著，聞甚深法心不迷謬，智慧深固恭敬信受，隨所聽聞皆能會入甚深般若波羅蜜多，諸所造作世間事業亦依般若波羅蜜多方便善巧會入法性，不見一事出法性者，設有不與法性相應，亦能方便會入般若波羅蜜多甚深理趣，由斯不見出法性者。若菩薩摩訶薩成就如是諸行、狀、相，定於無上正等菩提不復退轉。
'Furthermore, Subhūti! All non-retrogressing bodhisattva-mahāsattvas do not value material gain, do not seek fame and reputation, their minds are free from jealousy and stinginess, their bodies are without faults. Regarding food, clothing, bedding, medicine, and resources, they do not generate attachment. When hearing profound Dharma, their minds are not confused or deluded—their wisdom is deep and firm, they respectfully believe and accept it. Whatever they hear, they can integrate into the profound Prajñāpāramitā. All their worldly activities also rely on the skillful means of Prajñāpāramitā to integrate into the dharma-nature—they see nothing that exists outside the dharma-nature. Even if something does not correspond with the dharma-nature, they can skillfully integrate it into the profound principles of Prajñāpāramitā, and thus see nothing that exists outside the dharma-nature. If bodhisattva-mahāsattvas achieve such conduct, characteristics, and signs, they are definitely non-retrogressing from unsurpassed perfect enlightenment.
「復次，善現！一切不退轉菩薩摩訶薩，設有惡魔現前化作八大地獄，復於一一大地獄中，化作無量百千菩薩，皆被猛焰交徹燒然，各受辛酸楚毒大苦；作是化已，告不退轉諸菩薩言：『此諸菩薩皆受無上正等菩提不退轉記，故墮如是大地獄中，恒受如斯種種劇苦。汝等菩薩既受無上正等菩提不退轉記，亦當墮此大地獄中受諸劇苦。佛授汝等大地獄中受極苦記，非授無上正等菩提不退轉記。是故汝等應疾捨棄大菩提心，可得免脫此地獄苦，當生天上或生人中受諸妙樂。』是時，不退轉菩薩摩訶薩見聞此事，其心不動亦不驚疑，但作是念：『受不退轉記菩薩摩訶薩若墮惡趣，受諸苦惱不能免脫，必無是處。今見聞者定是惡魔所作所說，皆非實有。』若菩薩摩訶薩成就如是諸行、狀、相，定於無上正等菩提不復退轉。
'Furthermore, Subhūti! All non-retrogressing bodhisattva-mahāsattvas—suppose evil māras appear before them and conjure the eight great hells, and in each great hell they conjure countless hundreds of thousands of bodhisattvas, all being burned through by fierce flames, each suffering bitter, sour, and poisonous great anguish. Having made such conjurations, they tell the non-retrogressing bodhisattvas: "These bodhisattvas have all received predictions of non-retrogression from unsurpassed perfect enlightenment, and therefore have fallen into such great hells, constantly suffering such various severe torments. Since you bodhisattvas have received predictions of non-retrogression from unsurpassed perfect enlightenment, you too will fall into these great hells and suffer severe torments. The Buddha has given you predictions of suffering extreme anguish in the great hells, not predictions of non-retrogression from unsurpassed perfect enlightenment. Therefore, you should quickly abandon your great bodhicitta—you can escape these hell sufferings and be born in heaven or among humans to enjoy wonderful pleasures." At this time, the non-retrogressing bodhisattva-mahāsattvas, seeing and hearing these events, have minds that do not move and are not startled or doubtful, but think: "For bodhisattva-mahāsattvas who have received predictions of non-retrogression to fall into evil destinies and suffer torments without being able to escape—this is impossible. What I now see and hear is definitely created and spoken by evil māras, none of it is real." If bodhisattva-mahāsattvas achieve such conduct, characteristics, and signs, they are definitely non-retrogressing from unsurpassed perfect enlightenment.
「復次，善現！一切不退轉菩薩摩訶薩，設有惡魔作沙門像，來至其所說如是言：『汝先所聞受持、讀誦甚深般若波羅蜜多相應經典皆是邪說，應疾捨棄勿謂為真。汝等若能速疾棄捨，我當教汝真淨佛法，令汝速證無上菩提。汝先所聞非真佛語，是文頌者虛誑撰集，我之所說是真佛語。』善現當知！若菩薩摩訶薩聞如是語心動驚疑，當知未受不退轉記。若菩薩摩訶薩聞如是說，其心不動亦不驚疑，但隨無作、無相、無生法性而住，是菩薩摩訶薩諸有所作不信他語，不隨他教而便動轉，如阿羅漢諸有所為不信他語，現證法性無惑無疑，一切惡魔不能傾動。如是不退轉菩薩摩訶薩，一切聲聞、獨覺、外道、諸惡魔等不能破壞，令於菩提而生退屈。若菩薩摩訶薩成就如是諸行、狀、相，定於無上正等菩提不復退轉。
'Furthermore, Subhūti! All non-retrogressing bodhisattva-mahāsattvas—suppose evil māras take the form of śramaṇas and come to them saying: "The scriptures related to the profound Prajñāpāramitā that you previously heard, upheld, and recited are all heterodox teachings—you should quickly abandon them and not consider them true. If you can quickly abandon them, I will teach you the true and pure Buddha-dharma, enabling you to quickly realize unsurpassed enlightenment. What you heard before was not the true words of the Buddha—they were falsely compiled by writers and composers of texts. What I am saying is the true words of the Buddha." You should know, Subhūti! If bodhisattva-mahāsattvas, upon hearing such words, have their minds moved and become startled and doubtful, know that they have not received predictions of non-retrogression. If bodhisattva-mahāsattvas hear such statements and their minds do not move and are not startled or doubtful, but simply abide according to the dharma-nature of non-action, signlessness, and non-arising—such bodhisattva-mahāsattvas in all their activities do not believe others' words and do not move and turn according to others' teachings, just as arhats in all their activities do not believe others' words, having directly realized the dharma-nature without confusion or doubt, unable to be toppled by any evil māras. Such non-retrogressing bodhisattva-mahāsattvas cannot be destroyed by all śrāvakas, pratyekabuddhas, heterodox practitioners, evil māras, and others, causing them to retreat and give up regarding enlightenment. If bodhisattva-mahāsattvas achieve such conduct, characteristics, and signs, they are definitely non-retrogressing from unsurpassed perfect enlightenment.
「復次，善現！一切不退轉菩薩摩訶薩，設有惡魔來至其所，詐現親友作如是言：『汝等所行是生死法非菩薩行，汝等今應修盡苦道，速盡眾苦得般涅槃。』是時，惡魔即為菩薩說墮生死相似道法，告菩薩言：『此是真道，汝修此道，速盡一切生老病死得般涅槃。現在苦身尚應厭捨，況更求受當來苦身！宜自審思捨先所信。』是菩薩摩訶薩聞彼語時，其心不動亦不驚疑，但作是念：『如是說者定是惡魔。』時，彼惡魔復語菩薩：『欲聞菩薩無益行耶？謂諸菩薩經如殑伽沙數大劫，以無量種上妙供具供養諸佛，復於殑伽沙等佛所，修無量種難行苦行，親近承事如殑伽沙諸佛世尊，請問無量無邊菩薩所應修道；殑伽沙等諸佛世尊，如所請問次第為說。是諸菩薩摩訶薩眾如佛教誡，精勤修學經無量劫，尚不能證所求無上正等菩提，況今汝等可能證得！』是時，菩薩雖聞其言，而心不動亦無疑惑。
'Furthermore, Subhūti! All non-retrogressing bodhisattva-mahāsattvas—suppose evil māras come to them, falsely appearing as close friends and saying: "What you are practicing are the dharmas of birth and death, not bodhisattva practices. You should now cultivate the path of ending suffering, quickly extinguishing all sufferings and attaining parinirvāṇa." At this time, the evil māra immediately explains to the bodhisattvas dharma-like paths that fall into birth and death, telling the bodhisattvas: "This is the true path. If you cultivate this path, you will quickly extinguish all birth, old age, sickness, and death and attain parinirvāṇa. You should even renounce your present suffering body—how much more should you avoid seeking to receive future suffering bodies! You should carefully consider and abandon what you previously believed." When such bodhisattva-mahāsattvas hear these words, their minds do not move and they are not startled or doubtful, but simply think: "One who speaks thus is definitely an evil māra."
'At that time, the evil māra again says to the bodhisattvas: "Do you wish to hear about the futile practices of bodhisattvas? Bodhisattvas spend great eons as numerous as the sands of the Ganges making offerings to Buddhas with countless kinds of excellent offerings, and at Buddhas as numerous as the sands of the Ganges they cultivate countless kinds of difficult ascetic practices, approach and serve Buddha-bhagavats as numerous as the sands of the Ganges, and inquire about the countless, boundless paths that bodhisattvas should cultivate. Buddha-bhagavats as numerous as the sands of the Ganges, according to what was asked, explain in sequence. These assemblies of bodhisattva-mahāsattvas, following the Buddha's instructions, diligently study and practice for countless eons, yet still cannot realize the unsurpassed perfect enlightenment they seek—how much less can you now attain it!" At this time, although the bodhisattvas hear these words, their minds do not move and they have no doubts.'"
「時，彼惡魔復於是處，化作無量苾芻形像，告菩薩曰：『此諸苾芻皆於過去經無數劫修無量種難行苦行，而不能得無上菩提，今皆退住阿羅漢果，云何汝等能證菩提？』是諸菩薩見聞此已，即作是念：『定是惡魔為擾亂我作如是事，定無菩薩修行般若波羅蜜多至圓滿位，不證無上正等菩提，退住聲聞、獨覺等地。』復作是念：『若諸菩薩如佛所說修菩薩行，不證無上正等菩提，必無是處。當知今者所見所聞，定是惡魔所作所說。』若菩薩摩訶薩成就如是諸行、狀、相，定於無上正等菩提不復退轉。
At that time, the evil māra again conjures countless monk forms at that place and tells the bodhisattvas: "All these monks have cultivated countless kinds of difficult ascetic practices for numberless eons in the past, yet were unable to attain unsurpassed enlightenment—they have all now retreated to dwell in the arhat fruit. How can you attain enlightenment?" When these bodhisattvas see and hear this, they immediately think: "This is definitely an evil māra creating such things to disturb me. It is certain that no bodhisattva who practices Prajñāpāramitā to the perfect stage fails to realize unsurpassed perfect enlightenment and retreats to dwell in the śrāvaka, pratyekabuddha, and other grounds." They further think: "If bodhisattvas practice bodhisattva conduct as the Buddha taught and do not realize unsurpassed perfect enlightenment, this is impossible. I should know that what I now see and hear is definitely created and spoken by evil māras." If bodhisattva-mahāsattvas achieve such conduct, characteristics, and signs, they are definitely non-retrogressing from unsurpassed perfect enlightenment.
「復次，善現！一切不退轉菩薩摩訶薩，設有惡魔作苾芻像來至其所，欲令厭背無上菩提，作如是言：『一切智智與虛空等，無性為性，自相本空，諸法亦爾，與虛空等，無性為性。自相空中，無有一法可名能證，無有一法可名所證，證處、證時及由此證亦不可得。既一切法與虛空等，無性為性，自相本空，汝等云何唐受勤苦，求證無上正等菩提？汝先所聞諸菩薩眾應求無上正等菩提，皆是魔說非真佛語。汝等應捨求證無上正等覺心，勿於長夜為諸有情自受勤苦，雖行種種難行苦行，欲求菩提終不能得。』是菩薩摩訶薩聞說如是呵諫語時，能審觀察：『此惡魔事，欲退敗我大菩提心，我今不應信受彼說退失所發大菩提心，應更堅牢終無動轉。』若菩薩摩訶薩成就如是諸行、狀、相，定於無上正等菩提不復退轉。
'Furthermore, Subhūti! All non-retrogressing bodhisattva-mahāsattvas—suppose evil māras take the form of monks and come to them, wishing to make them disgusted with and turn away from unsurpassed enlightenment, saying: "All-knowing wisdom is equal to space, having no-nature as its nature, its own characteristics being originally empty. All phenomena are likewise, equal to space, having no-nature as their nature. Within the emptiness of own-characteristics, there is not one phenomenon that can be called 'that which realizes,' not one phenomenon that can be called 'that which is realized'—the place of realization, the time of realization, and that by which realization occurs are also unobtainable. Since all phenomena are equal to space, having no-nature as their nature, their own characteristics being originally empty, how can you vainly endure diligent suffering to seek realization of unsurpassed perfect enlightenment? What you previously heard about bodhisattva assemblies seeking unsurpassed perfect enlightenment—all of this is māra-speak, not true Buddha-words. You should abandon the mind seeking to realize unsurpassed perfect awakening. Do not, throughout the long night, undergo diligent suffering for sentient beings. Although you practice various difficult ascetic practices, you will never be able to attain the enlightenment you seek." When such bodhisattva-mahāsattvas hear such reproaching and admonishing words, they can carefully observe: "This is the work of evil māras, wanting to defeat and destroy my great bodhicitta. I should not believe and accept their words and lose the great bodhicitta I have aroused—I should make it even more firm and never waver." If bodhisattva-mahāsattvas achieve such conduct, characteristics, and signs, they are definitely non-retrogressing from unsurpassed perfect enlightenment.'
「復次，善現！一切不退轉菩薩摩訶薩，欲入初靜慮乃至第四靜慮，即隨意能入。是菩薩摩訶薩雖入四靜慮，而不受彼果。為欲利樂諸有情故，隨欲攝受所應受身，即隨所願皆能攝受，作所作已即能捨之，是故雖能入諸靜慮，而不隨彼勢力受生。為度有情還生欲界，雖生欲界而不染欲。若菩薩摩訶薩成就如是諸行、狀、相，定於無上正等菩提不復退轉。
'Furthermore, Subhūti! All non-retrogressing bodhisattva-mahāsattvas, when they wish to enter the first dhyāna up to the fourth dhyāna, can enter them at will. Although such bodhisattva-mahāsattvas enter the four dhyānas, they do not receive their fruits. For the sake of benefiting and bringing happiness to sentient beings, they can take on whatever bodies they should receive according to their wishes—whatever they aspire to, they can all obtain. Having accomplished what needs to be done, they can immediately abandon them. Therefore, although they can enter the various dhyānas, they do not take rebirth according to the power of those states. In order to liberate sentient beings, they return to be born in the desire realm, yet although born in the desire realm, they are not defiled by desires. If bodhisattva-mahāsattvas achieve such conduct, characteristics, and signs, they are definitely non-retrogressing from unsurpassed perfect enlightenment.
「復次，善現！一切不退轉菩薩摩訶薩，不貴名聲、不著稱譽，於有情類無恚恨心，常欲令其利益安樂；往來入出無散亂心，進止威儀恒住正念；為有情故，雖處居家，而於其中不生貪著，雖現受欲而常厭怖，如涉險路心恒驚恐，雖有所食惶懼不安，但念何時出斯險難；雖現受用種種珍財，而於其中不起貪愛，不以邪命非法自活，寧自殞沒不損於人。所以者何？是諸菩薩行深般若波羅蜜多，是人中尊、人中善士、人中豪貴、人中牛王、人中蓮華、人中龍象、人中師子、人中勇健、人中調御、人中英傑，本為利樂一切有情，現處居家方便饒益，豈為自活侵損於人？所以者何？是諸菩薩甚深般若波羅蜜多方便善巧所任持故。若菩薩摩訶薩成就如是諸行、狀、相，定於無上正等菩提不復退轉。
'Furthermore, Subhūti! All non-retrogressing bodhisattva-mahāsattvas do not value fame or cling to praise. Toward sentient beings they have no mind of anger or resentment, always wishing to bring them benefit and happiness. In their comings and goings, entering and exiting, they have no scattered mind—their deportment in advancing and stopping constantly abides in right mindfulness. For the sake of sentient beings, although dwelling in the household life, they do not generate attachment to it. Although they appear to enjoy sensual pleasures, they are constantly disgusted and fearful, like one crossing a dangerous path whose mind is constantly alarmed and afraid. Although they eat, they are anxious and uneasy, only thinking of when they can escape these dangerous difficulties. Although they appear to enjoy various precious wealth, they do not generate greed or love for it. They do not sustain themselves through wrong livelihood or unlawful means—they would rather perish themselves than harm others. Why is this so? These bodhisattvas practice the profound Prajñāpāramitā and are honored among humans, good persons among humans, noble ones among humans, bull kings among humans, lotuses among humans, dragon-elephants among humans, lions among humans, heroes among humans, tamers among humans, outstanding ones among humans. They originally appeared to dwell in household life as skillful means to benefit all sentient beings—how could they harm others for the sake of their own livelihood? Why is this so? Because these bodhisattvas are sustained by the skillful means of the profound Prajñāpāramitā. If bodhisattva-mahāsattvas achieve such conduct, characteristics, and signs, they are definitely non-retrogressing from unsurpassed perfect enlightenment.'"
「復次，善現！一切不退轉菩薩摩訶薩，有執金剛藥叉神王常隨左右密為守護，不為一切人、非人等邪魅威力損害身心。由此因緣，是諸菩薩乃至無上正等菩提，身意泰然常無擾亂，具丈夫相諸根圓滿，心行調善恒修淨命，不行幻術、占相、吉凶、呪禁、鬼神、合和湯藥、誘誑卑末、結好貴人、侮傲聖賢、親昵男女，不為名利自讚毀他，不以染心瞻顧戲笑，戒見清淨志性淳質。若菩薩摩訶薩成就如是諸行、狀、相，定於無上正等菩提不復退轉。
'Furthermore, Subhūti! All non-retrogressing bodhisattva-mahāsattvas have vajra-wielding yakṣa god-kings constantly following at their left and right, secretly protecting them, so they are not harmed in body or mind by the evil powers of all humans, non-humans, and malevolent spirits. Due to this cause and condition, these bodhisattvas, until they attain unsurpassed perfect enlightenment, have bodies and minds that are peaceful and serene, constantly without disturbance. They possess the characteristics of great beings with perfect faculties, their mental conduct is well-regulated, and they constantly cultivate pure livelihood. They do not practice magic arts, fortune-telling, divination of good and bad omens, incantations and prohibitions, spirit worship, compounding medicines, deceiving lowly people, currying favor with the noble, insulting and scorning sages, or being intimate with men and women. They do not praise themselves and disparage others for fame and profit, do not gaze about and laugh with defiled minds—their precepts and views are pure, their aspirations and nature sincere and simple. If bodhisattva-mahāsattvas achieve such conduct, characteristics, and signs, they are definitely non-retrogressing from unsurpassed perfect enlightenment.
「復次，善現！一切不退轉菩薩摩訶薩，於諸世間文章伎藝，雖得善巧而不愛著，達一切法不可得故，皆雜穢語邪命攝故；於諸世俗外道書論，雖亦善知而不樂著，達一切法本性空故；又諸世俗外道書論，所說理事多有增減，於菩薩道非隨順故。若菩薩摩訶薩成就如是諸行、狀、相，定於無上正等菩提不復退轉。
'Furthermore, Subhūti! All non-retrogressing bodhisattva-mahāsattvas, although they may gain skill in worldly literature and arts, do not become attached to them, understanding that all phenomena are unobtainable and that these are all included in frivolous speech and wrong livelihood. Regarding worldly and heterodox texts and treatises, although they may also know them well, they do not delight in or become attached to them, understanding that all phenomena are empty by nature. Moreover, worldly and heterodox texts and treatises often have additions and subtractions in their explanations of principles and matters, and do not accord with the bodhisattva path. If bodhisattva-mahāsattvas achieve such conduct, characteristics, and signs, they are definitely non-retrogressing from unsurpassed perfect enlightenment.
「復次，善現！一切不退轉菩薩摩訶薩，復有所餘諸行、狀、相，吾當為汝分別解說。謂彼菩薩行深般若波羅蜜多，達諸法空，不樂觀察論說眾事、王事、賊事、軍事、戰事、城邑、聚落、象馬、車乘、衣服、飲食、臥具、花香、男女、好醜、園林、池沼、山海等事，不樂觀察論說藥叉、羅剎娑等諸鬼神事，不樂觀察論說街衢、市肆、樓閣、商賈等事，不樂觀察論說歌舞、伎樂、俳優、戲謔等事，不樂觀察論說洲渚、橋梁、船筏、珠寶等事，不樂觀察論說星辰、風雨、寒熱、吉凶等事，不樂觀察論說種種法義相違、文頌等事，不樂觀察論說異生、聲聞、獨覺相應之事，但樂觀察論說般若波羅蜜多相應之事。
'Furthermore, Subhūti! All non-retrogressing bodhisattva-mahāsattvas have additional conduct, characteristics, and signs that I shall distinguish and explain for you. These bodhisattvas practice the profound Prajñāpāramitā and understand the emptiness of all phenomena. They do not delight in observing or discussing public affairs, royal affairs, bandit affairs, military affairs, war affairs, cities and towns, villages and settlements, elephants and horses, vehicles, clothing, food and drink, bedding, flowers and incense, men and women, beauty and ugliness, gardens and groves, ponds and pools, mountains and seas, and such matters. They do not delight in observing or discussing yakṣas, rākṣasas, and other spirit affairs. They do not delight in observing or discussing streets and lanes, markets and shops, towers and pavilions, merchants and trade, and such matters. They do not delight in observing or discussing singing and dancing, music and entertainment, actors and jesters, jokes and banter, and such matters. They do not delight in observing or discussing islands and sandbars, bridges and beams, boats and rafts, pearls and treasures, and such matters. They do not delight in observing or discussing stars and constellations, wind and rain, cold and heat, good and bad fortune, and such matters. They do not delight in observing or discussing various conflicting dharma meanings, verses and compositions, and such matters. They do not delight in observing or discussing matters corresponding to ordinary beings, śrāvakas, and pratyekabuddhas, but only delight in observing and discussing matters corresponding to Prajñāpāramitā.'
「善現當知！是菩薩摩訶薩常不遠離甚深般若波羅蜜多相應作意，常不遠離薩婆若心，不好乖違、樂和諍訟，常希正法、不愛非法，恒慕善友、不樂惡友，好出法言、離非法言，樂見如來、欣出家眾；十方國土有佛世尊宣說法要，願往生彼親近、供養、聽聞正法。
'You should know, Subhūti! Such bodhisattva-mahāsattvas constantly do not depart from mental application corresponding to the profound Prajñāpāramitā, constantly do not depart from the mind of all-knowing wisdom. They do not like discord but delight in harmonizing disputes and litigation. They constantly aspire to the true Dharma and do not love non-Dharma. They constantly long for good friends and do not delight in evil friends. They like to speak Dharma words and avoid non-Dharma words. They delight in seeing Tathāgatas and rejoice in the monastic community. In the lands of the ten directions where Buddha-bhagavats proclaim essential Dharma teachings, they aspire to be born there to approach, make offerings, and hear the true Dharma.
「善現當知！是菩薩摩訶薩多從欲界、色界天沒，生贍部洲中國人趣，善於伎藝、呪術、經書、地理、天文及諸法義；或生邊地大國大城，與諸有情作大饒益。
'You should know, Subhūti! Such bodhisattva-mahāsattvas mostly pass away from the desire realm or form realm heavens and are born in the central countries of Jambudvīpa among humans, skilled in arts, incantations, scriptures, geography, astronomy, and the meanings of various dharmas. Or they are born in border regions in great countries and great cities, bringing great benefit to sentient beings.
「善現當知！是菩薩摩訶薩終不自疑：『我為退轉、為不退轉？』於自地法亦不生疑：『為有、為無？』於諸魔事善能覺了。如預流者於自地法終不生疑，設有惡魔種種惑亂不能傾動，如是不退轉菩薩摩訶薩於自地法定不生疑，妙覺魔事不隨魔力。如有造作無間業者，彼無間心恒常隨逐，乃至命盡不能捨離，設起餘心不能遮伏。此諸菩薩亦復如是，不退轉心恒常隨逐，安住菩薩不退轉地，世間天、人、阿素洛等不能動壞自所得法，於諸魔業善能覺知，所證法中常無疑惑；雖生他世，亦不發起聲聞、獨覺相應之心，亦不自疑：『我於來世能證無上佛菩提。』不安住自地，不隨他緣，於自地法無能壞者。所以者何？是諸菩薩成就無動無退轉智，一切惡緣不能傾動，其心堅固踰於金剛。設有惡魔作佛形像，來到其所作如是言：『汝今應求阿羅漢果永盡諸漏入般涅槃。汝未堪受大菩提記，亦未證得無生法忍。汝今未有不退轉地諸行、狀、相，如來不應授汝無上大菩提記。』是菩薩摩訶薩聞彼語時心無變動，不退、不沒、無驚、無怖，但作是念：『此定惡魔或魔眷屬化作佛像，來至我所作如是說，若真佛說不應有異。』
'You should know, Subhūti! Such bodhisattva-mahāsattvas never doubt themselves: "Am I retrogressing or non-retrogressing?" Regarding the dharmas of their own ground, they also do not generate doubt: "Do they exist or not?" They skillfully understand all māra affairs. Just as stream-enterers never doubt the dharmas of their own ground, and even if evil māras create various confusions they cannot topple them, so these non-retrogressing bodhisattva-mahāsattvas definitely do not doubt the dharmas of their own ground—they wonderfully perceive māra affairs and do not follow māra power. Just as one who commits immediate karma has that immediate mind constantly following them until death without being able to abandon it, and even if other minds arise they cannot suppress it—these bodhisattvas are likewise: the non-retrogressing mind constantly follows them. Dwelling securely in the bodhisattva ground of non-retrogression, worldly gods, humans, asuras, and others cannot destroy the dharmas they have attained. They skillfully perceive all māra activities and constantly have no doubts regarding the dharmas they have realized. Even when born in other worlds, they do not give rise to minds corresponding to śrāvakas or pratyekabuddhas, nor do they doubt themselves: "Will I be able to realize unsurpassed Buddha-enlightenment in future lives?" They do not dwell insecurely in their own ground, do not follow other conditions—nothing can destroy the dharmas of their own ground. Why is this so? These bodhisattvas have achieved unshakeable, non-retrogressing wisdom. All evil conditions cannot topple them—their minds are firm, surpassing vajra. Even if evil māras take the form of a Buddha and come to them saying: "You should now seek the arhat fruit, permanently exhausting all defilements and entering parinirvāṇa. You are not yet worthy to receive the great enlightenment prediction, nor have you realized acceptance of the non-arising of phenomena. You do not yet have the conduct, characteristics, and signs of the non-retrogressing ground—the Tathāgata should not give you the prediction of unsurpassed great enlightenment"—when such bodhisattva-mahāsattvas hear these words, their minds have no change, they do not retreat, do not sink, are not startled, and are not frightened, but simply think: "This is definitely an evil māra or māra retinue transformed into a Buddha form, coming to me and speaking thus. If it were truly the Buddha speaking, there should be no such variance."
「善現當知！若菩薩摩訶薩聞彼語時，能作如是觀察憶念：『定是惡魔化為佛像，令我遠離甚深般若波羅蜜多，令我棄捨所求無上正等菩提，是故不應隨彼所說。』時，魔驚怖即便隱沒。是菩薩摩訶薩定已安住不退轉地，過去諸佛久已授彼大菩提記。所以者何？是菩薩摩訶薩具足成就不退轉地諸行、狀、相故，能覺知惡魔事業，令彼隱沒更不復現。若菩薩摩訶薩成就如是諸行、狀、相，定於無上正等菩提不復退轉。
'You should know, Subhūti! If bodhisattva-mahāsattvas, when hearing such words, can make such observations and recollections: "This is definitely an evil māra transformed into Buddha form, trying to make me distance myself from the profound Prajñāpāramitā and abandon the unsurpassed perfect enlightenment I seek—therefore I should not follow what they say"—at that time, the māra becomes frightened and immediately disappears. Such bodhisattva-mahāsattvas have definitely already dwelt securely in the non-retrogressing ground, and past Buddhas have long ago given them the great enlightenment prediction. Why is this so? Because such bodhisattva-mahāsattvas fully achieve the conduct, characteristics, and signs of the non-retrogressing ground, they can perceive evil māra activities and cause them to disappear and never appear again. If bodhisattva-mahāsattvas achieve such conduct, characteristics, and signs, they are definitely non-retrogressing from unsurpassed perfect enlightenment.
「復次，善現！諸有不退轉菩薩摩訶薩行深般若波羅蜜多，攝護正法不惜身命，況餘珍財、朋友、眷屬！為護正法勇猛精進，恒作是念：『如是正法即是諸佛清淨法身，一切如來恭敬供養。我今攝護過去未來現在佛法，即為攝護三世諸佛清淨法身故，我今應不惜身命、珍財、親友攝護此法。』復作是念：『如是正法通屬三世諸佛世尊，我亦墮在未來佛數。佛已授我大菩提記，由此因緣，諸佛正法即是我法，我應攝護不惜身命、珍財、親友。我未來世得作佛時，亦為有情宣說此法。』是菩薩摩訶薩見斯義利，攝護如來所說正法不惜身命，乃至菩提常無懈倦。若菩薩摩訶薩成就如是諸行、狀、相，定於無上正等菩提不復退轉。
'Furthermore, Subhūti! Non-retrogressing bodhisattva-mahāsattvas who practice the profound Prajñāpāramitā protect the true Dharma without sparing their lives, how much less other treasures, friends, and relatives! To protect the true Dharma they courageously and diligently advance, constantly thinking: "Such true Dharma is the pure dharma-body of all Buddhas—all Tathāgatas respectfully make offerings to it. I now protect the Buddha-dharma of past, future, and present, which is to protect the pure dharma-body of Buddhas of the three times. Therefore, I should now protect this Dharma without sparing my life, treasures, or dear friends." They further think: "Such true Dharma belongs universally to the Buddha-bhagavats of the three times, and I also fall within the number of future Buddhas. The Buddha has already given me the great enlightenment prediction. Due to this cause and condition, the true Dharma of all Buddhas is my Dharma—I should protect it without sparing my life, treasures, or dear friends. When I become a Buddha in future lives, I will also proclaim this Dharma for sentient beings." Such bodhisattva-mahāsattvas, seeing these benefits, protect the true Dharma spoken by the Tathāgata without sparing their lives, constantly without weariness until enlightenment. If bodhisattva-mahāsattvas achieve such conduct, characteristics, and signs, they are definitely non-retrogressing from unsurpassed perfect enlightenment.'"
「復次，善現！諸有不退轉菩薩摩訶薩，聞諸如來、應、正等覺所說正法無惑無疑，聞已受持能不忘失，乃至無上正等菩提，已得聞持陀羅尼故。」
'Furthermore, Subhūti! Non-retrogressing bodhisattva-mahāsattvas hear the true Dharma spoken by Tathāgatas, Arhats, and Perfectly Enlightened Ones without confusion or doubt. Having heard it, they can uphold it without forgetting, up until unsurpassed perfect enlightenment, having already attained the dhāraṇī of hearing and retention.'
爾時，善現便白佛言：「是菩薩摩訶薩但聞如來、應、正等覺所說正法無惑無疑，乃至菩提常不忘失；為聞菩薩及諸聲聞、天、龍、藥叉、人非人等所說正法，亦能於彼無惑無疑，乃至菩提常不忘失？」
At that time, Subhūti addressed the Buddha: 'Do these bodhisattva-mahāsattvas only hear the true Dharma spoken by Tathāgatas, Arhats, and Perfectly Enlightened Ones without confusion or doubt, never forgetting it until enlightenment? Or when they hear true Dharma spoken by bodhisattvas, śrāvakas, gods, nāgas, yakṣas, humans, non-humans, and others, can they also be without confusion or doubt regarding it, never forgetting it until enlightenment?'
佛告善現：「是菩薩摩訶薩普聞一切有情言音、文字、義理皆能通達，無惑無疑、常不忘失。所以者何？是菩薩摩訶薩於諸法中得無生忍已，善通達諸法實性，聞皆隨順並無疑惑。又得聞持陀羅尼故，常能憶念終無忘失。若菩薩摩訶薩成就如是諸行、狀、相，定於無上正等菩提不復退轉。
The Buddha told Subhūti: 'These bodhisattva-mahāsattvas universally hear all the speech, writing, and meanings of all sentient beings and can comprehend them all, without confusion, without doubt, and never forgetting. Why is this so? These bodhisattva-mahāsattvas, having attained acceptance of the non-arising of phenomena, skillfully penetrate the true nature of all phenomena—whatever they hear accords with this and they have no doubts. Moreover, having attained the dhāraṇī of hearing and retention, they can always remember and never forget. If bodhisattva-mahāsattvas achieve such conduct, characteristics, and signs, they are definitely non-retrogressing from unsurpassed perfect enlightenment.
「善現當知！是為不退轉菩薩摩訶薩諸行、狀、相。」
'You should know, Subhūti! These are the conduct, characteristics, and signs of non-retrogressing bodhisattva-mahāsattvas.'"