In terms of the three analogies for the door of the Origin, they are spoken of by Chih-i in terms of the relationship between the Traces and the Origin. The Traces would not be correctly clarified without the introduction of the Origin, but the Origin would not be known without the Traces (serving as the prelude in preparing audiences to be capable of receiving such Ultimate Truth). The correctly recognition of the Traces being derived from the Origin is the Buddha’s tactic to enable audiences to gain freedom from their attachment to the Traces. Such a gain in freedom is what will result in final realization of the Ultimate Truth (represented by the Origin).

The first analogy indicates that in the beginning stage of the Buddha’s teaching, the Traces are misunderstood as the ultimate, due to the fact that the Buddha’s real intention for the Origin is difficult to be known. Chih-i depicts that the flower containing the seedpod analogizes that the Traces certainly contain the Origin and are contained in the Origin. Although the intention of the Buddha is for the Origin, such purpose of the Buddha is difficult to be known, just like the seedpod that is contained in the flower is hardly known before the flower blooms.

The second analogy indicates that the final teaching of the Buddha can be characterized by opening the Traces and revealing the Origin. The recognition of the Origin enables the bodhisattvas to progress to strive for Buddhahood. Chih-i states that when the flower blooms, the seedpod is revealed. This analogizes that the opening of the Traces and the revelation of the Origin is for the Traces, for it can cause the bodhisattvas to recognize the expedient means employed by the Buddha. The recognition of the Traces enables one to return to perceive the Origin.

The third analogy indicates that as the result of the final teaching of the Buddha, the Traces are abandoned when the Origin is manifested, whereby one is no longer attached to the Traces, and one practices to attain perfect enlightenment. Chih-i delineates that when the flower falls, the seed is formed. This analogizes the abolishment of the Traces and the revelation of the Origin. Since the Origin has been recognized, one is no longer ignorant about the Traces. Such recognition of the Traces leads one to pursue Buddhahood only, from which one will eventually attain perfect enlightenment. (Vol. 2, Page 385-386)