Chih-i begins his detailed discussion of “dharma” by examining the classification of “dharma” into three categories: sentient beings, Buddha, and mind. These three dharmas, based on a verse in the Avataṃsaka Sūtra [Flower Garland Sūtra], are a classification of all reality into three subjective categories. “Mind” refers to the perceiver of objects (reserving for now the judgement as to the status – real, illusory, imaginary, or not – of these objects) and the subject which needs to be perfected in order to attain enlightenment. “Sentient beings” refers to the diversity of realms which the subject experiences, from that of hell to Buddhahood. “Buddha” refers to the subject perfected, the realm of enlightenment in which reality is correctly perceived. Thus these three dharmas are not separate and independent entities, but interpenetrating and integrated. All sentient beings have a mind which, depending on various causes and conditions, has the potential to experience any and all realms from hell to Buddhahood.