Similar to the pattern number three, the category number five also forms a circle. The five directions including the center and the other four directions revolving around it … symbolize the supremacy of the central point, but at the same time are all-encompassing with all directions equally in their own positions. Likewise, we may consider that the center of the five periods of the teaching is occupied by the Lotus Sūtra, symbolizing the period of apogee and the supremacy of this doctrine. However, the supremacy of the period of the Lotus Sūtra does not negate the importance of the other four periods. Without the relative doctrines expounded in the four periods to prepare the audiences for the revelation of the final doctrine, the audiences would not be able to comprehend the message delivered in the ultimate teaching of the Lotus Sūtra. With the previous four periods revolving around the last period of the Lotus Sūtra, the former periods are affirmed, in a sense that they have their own unique positions, and are thus embraced by the last period. The pattern of this circle that consists of five divisions affirmatively renders the characteristics of Chih-i’s perfect harmonization philosophy in an all-embracing manner. Forming a coherent unity, all existing things are gathered together under the leadership of the central point.