we use a direct method if we approach the subject via its nature;

          we use an intriguing method if we approach the subject via its form;

          we use a refined method if we approach the subject via its system; and

          we use an expedient method if we approach the subject via its application.

          It can be seen that these are four different levels.  In practice, we would like to integrate them in their application.  We would like nature, form, system and application to be united.

          Within the whole system, nature, form, system and application are actually four different graded systems.  In order to understand the phenomenon, they are placed within the same system.  They are linked together, closely related and they complement each other.

          Direct, intriguing, refined and expedient methods also belong to a system.  Therefore, we would also like to unite them by placing them within the same system. Thus they can integrate and perform together.

          Nature, form, system and application are a closely related system.  Direct, intriguing, refined and expedient methods are also a closely related system.  We combine the two minor systems to form a major system.

          When we couple nature, form, system and application together with direct, intriguing, refined and expedient methods, we generate the pattern of:-

          Nature approach - direct explanation;

          Form approach - intriguing explanation;

          System approach - refined explanation; and

          Application approach - expedient explanation.

          Actually, these four aspects should be united.  They should not differ from one another.  The above situation arises during their application, to fit in different circumstances and suit different objects.

          Nature, form, system and application should be in unity.  Different methods are used in order to adapt to different situations and respond to different objects of Dharma expounding.

          If you directly explain the phenomenon's nature to an object of inferior root nature, he would end up confused.  Therefore, a form is needed.  You need to present the form to make him understand: "Ah, it is like this!"

          The form approach needs an intriguing explanation.  If the explanation is not intriguing, he would feel that your saying is too common, too ordinary.

          For a person with further inferior root nature, you would need to present the system.  "System approach - refined explanation".  When we touch on the system, our explanation cannot reach an intriguing level.

          "Nature approach - direct explanation" is explaining the reality of the universe within and without the secular world, mainly expounding the area of Dharma nature, which is beyond the secular world.

          In the case of "form approach - intriguing explanation", the contents are not solely around matters beyond the secular world, they are gradually shifted to secular areas.  There are still substance beyond secular.  The major portion is beyond secular and the minor part is secular.

          When "system approach - refined explanation" is applied, there are both beyond secular and secular areas mentioned - half and half.

          "Application approach - expedient explanation".  Application approach requires expedient explanation.  The major portion is secular.  With a slight portion of beyond secular for leading purposes, i.e. leading from a low level of worldly affairs to a high level of beyond secular matters.

          Story telling is expedient explanation.  All stories are expedient expounding, hence termed "generation of grand application".  Naturally, the summit of grand application is the embodiment of supernatural powers.  Embodiment of supernatural powers is grand application.

          Therefore, under this theoretical system, the moment of "application approach - expedient explanation" is also a moment of generating subtle application of supernatural powers.  It is actually the most direct reflection of Dharma nature at its most fundamental quality.  It is the grand application of Dharma nature.

          Supernatural power is the grand application of Dharma nature.  This viewpoint is very important.  However, this viewpoint is only generated upon one's true practice with true realization.  It would not be generated without true practice and realization.  Therefore, it is wrong for those "Incorrect Dharma" people to criticize supernatural powers as incorrect methods and evil ways.  By doing so, they are actually negating Buddha Dharma.  This point of view should be crystal clear.

          Supernatural powers cannot be pursued.  However, when they have arrived, we should not decline.  This understanding is very important.