For the meaning of retinues, Chih-i explains that retinues refer to the Buddhist practitioners, who, after receiving the precepts or the method of meditation, carry out practices in accordance with the teaching, and are able to conceive an aspiration to attain precept, concentration and wisdom. Because of their practice that accords with the dharma, the dharma becomes a teacher, and the practitioner a disciple. A family tie is developed in due cause. Chih-i asserts:

“[The Buddha] teaches various Dharma-doors that enter the mind of beings. Because of the dharma, intimacy is formed; because of intimacy, [one] has faith in [the teaching of the Buddha]; because of the faith, one becomes subservient to [the teaching of the Buddha]. This is called Retinues.” (Vol. 2, Page 290)