When delusions arise, afflictions follow. Because we cling to a sense of self, we suffer. This suffering is hard to escape, and it only breeds more suffering. Whether it is the physical pain of , the sorrow in the heart, or the suffering of the spirit, all of it stems from these delusions, and there is no end to it. If you can awaken to this, you will instantly gain wisdom.
The Endless Cycle of Self-Clinging
We often find ourselves trapped in a cycle of suffering because we do not understand the nature of our own minds. We are burdened by physical pain, which manifests within our bodies; emotional sorrow, which resides deep within our hearts; and spiritual distress, which is experienced by our spirits as they wander through the six realms of rebirth. All of these experiences are merely the result of our own delusions. If you can realise that these are not permanent, you will be able to begin the process of liberation.
The Radiant Clarity of the True Self
The phenomena of birth and death are as fleeting as a single moment. They are like the light of a lamp that illuminates a dark room, or the light of the sun and moon that shines across the entire universe. These phenomena are also a form of affinity, serving to break through our afflictions. When the heart awakens, it does so instantly. When you observe a single speck of dust, the entire truth is revealed. There is no discrimination, no high or low, and no difference between things. When you align yourself with the Universal Principle, the Truth, and the Right Way, everything becomes clear. When delusions are exhausted, wisdom is established, and you return to your original nature. Observe your own true self; it is like taking medicine when you are ill. If the illness is a delusion, then the medicine is also a delusion. When you act according to the Truth, everything will naturally fall into place.
Walking the Path of the Universal Principle
To all the great Bodhisattvas in the Western Land of Dharma Nature, you should strive to understand the Universal Principle, the Truth, and the Right Way even more deeply. All things are illusory, and these illusions arise from our thoughts. Once you have your own ideas, your own , and your own physical body, it becomes difficult to escape the temptations of the and . It is also difficult to leave behind the suffering of the six realms of rebirth. The only way to succeed is to listen to the wonderful Dharma talks given by Practitioner Su, specifically the teachings on the interpretation of the sutras. You must apply these teachings to your daily life. Ask yourself: Are my thoughts and intentions based on Goodness or evil? Do I see the good in others, or do I only focus on their shortcomings? Am I creating discriminations and attachments regarding right and wrong? Do not hold these things in your heart. When you see the appearance of things, know that it is not the ultimate Truth. Everything your eyes see is an illusory appearance. Because everything is constantly changing—the people, the circumstances, and the thoughts—there is no absolute right or wrong. These are merely your own discriminations and attachments. If you want to have true attainment, you must let go. Let go of what your eyes see, let go of your delusions, and dwell only in the present.
The Eternal Stillness of the Present
What is the present moment? It is found in the space between breaths, in the gaps between your messy thoughts, and in the quiet moments between each mouthful of food. It is the state of being without thought or intention. In that moment, you simply raise the Buddha-name, . By doing so, your wisdom will instantly open, you will feel at ease and content, and you will be able to smile like the Buddha holding a flower.
Ashvaghosha
This message was recorded by the Buddha's disciple, Shi Haiyuan.
