The expression “The Bodhisattva Universal Virtue [Universal Sage] is boundless in the size of his body, boundless in the sound of his voice, and boundless in the form of his image” indicates the unfathomed store of virtues and powers possessed by the Bodhisattva Universal Virtue. If this bodhisattva looked completely different from the people of this sahā-world when he appeared to instruct them, they would feel ill at ease with him and would feel unable to follow him. Therefore he appears in human form and as such should be regarded as the personification of the “principle of half a step.” …

The “three hindrances” refer to the three evils of arrogance, envy, and covetousness. Because people in the sahā-world are burdened with these three heavy hindrances, they should be guided through practices that relate to their own environment. This is the work of the Bodhisattva Universal Virtue. For this reason he rides a white elephant, which is symbolic of Buddhist practice and represents purity. The six tusks of the elephant suggest the purity of the six sense organs: eye, ear, nose, tongue, body, and mind. The elephant’s seven legs suggest the absence of the seven evils of killing, stealing, committing adultery, lying, ill speaking, improper language, and a double tongue.

Next, the body of the elephant and its beauty are described in various ways. This symbolizes how beautiful and valuable it is to practice the Buddha’s teachings. Then is mentioned a precious daughter appearing on each of the lotus flowers that grow from the bathing pools at the end of the elephant’s tusks, along with many musical instruments and colorful birds. This means that if anyone practices the Buddha’s teachings, those around him will be naturally purified.