Buddha-nature as the conditional causes of Buddhahood refers to the inherent potential and propensity for Buddhahood within all sentient beings which allows them to practice and build up the proper causes and conditions for attaining Buddhahood. In terms of the “three tracts” this corresponds to one’s inherent disposition , if not obstructed by sundry passions and delusions, to perform the deeds required to realize the wisdom of a Buddha.

Buddha-nature as the complete cause of Buddhahood refers to the inherent potential for wisdom in all sentient beings. In terms of the “three tracts” this corresponds to the illumination of wisdom, which destroys delusions and reveals the true nature of reality. Buddha-nature as the direct cause of Buddhahood refers to the fact that all beings are inherently endowed with “the reality of true thusness” in that they all participate in the true nature of reality. In terms of the “three tracts” this corresponds to the true nature of reality which is non-illusory and un-differentiated.

These three aspects, again, are not detached from each other but different aspects of one Buddha-nature and one reality. The Buddha-nature, the potential in each sentient being to attain Buddhahood, consists of the ability to practice, the prior presence of wisdom which only needs to be uncovered, and participation in true reality, which is simultaneously empty and conventionally existent.

The rest of the characteristics of the Buddha consist of various virtuous qualities such as the four Universal Vows, the perfection of the six pāramitā, and so forth. The Buddha’s “retribution” is actually the “reward” of perfect enlightenment and so forth for completing all practices and attaining Buddhahood.