Q: What is meant by manifesting subtle [reality] without destroying the deluded nature?

A: The essence of the three kinds of delusions is indivisible from the nature of reality. The three kinds of delusions are transformed and produced due to stupidity and illusion. The basis of the four virtuous qualities is also ignorance, because the four virtuous qualities are made manifest through awakening enlightenment. It is analogous to when cold comes and solidifies water into ice, or heat comes and melts the ice and transforms it into water. There is no contaminated water detached from pure water, and one dips for water after breaking the hard ice on top. It is analogous to when one falls asleep and one’s mind is transformed and has various dreams. Phenomenal appearances in the world are like this. The dharmas of mental dreams are also like this. Therefore one seeks enlightenment in the passionate mind. One gains Nirvāṇa within the visible form of the cycle of birth and death. Therefore the Chu-fa wu-hsing Ching says, “Carnal desires are indivisible from the Path. Hatred and stupidity are also likewise.” The Vimalakīrtinirdeśa Sūtra says, “Cravings are indivisible from enlightenment. The cycle of birth and death is indivisible from Nirvāṇa.” The Mahāparinirvāṇa Sūtra says, “Ignorance is converted and changed into enlightenment.” The Buddha explains true enlightenment in this way frequently. Are these not texts that manifest subtle [reality] with regard to delusions?