Written by Nichiren
Chapter2(Positioning of the sutras intended for the instruction and conversion of others)
The sutras intended for the instruction and conversion of others constitute all the sutra teachings set forth in the forty-two years prior to the preaching of the Lotus Sutra. These are known as provisional teachings, and are also called expedient means.
In terms of the four teachings [of doctrine], they represent the first three teachings, the Tripitaka teaching, the connecting teaching, and the specific teaching. In terms of the five periods [of teachings], they represent the sutra teachings set forth in the four periods that preceded the Lotus Sutra, that is, the Flower Garland, Āgama, Correct and Equal, and Wisdom periods.