I Am Here to Practise: Teachings from the Fifth Patriarch
The Second Interview with Chan Master Hongren
Recorded on July 27, 2017
The Universality of the Path
Every person walking the path of practice will encounter trials that are, in essence, quite similar. Many people look up to those they consider eminent monks or great masters, believing that their achievements are beyond the reach of ordinary individuals. However, these masters are simply those who have engaged in diligent practice and persistent purification, just as you are doing now. Therefore, as long as one is willing to practise, every single person has the potential to achieve the same results.
Shakyamuni Buddha stated this truth very clearly: every being possesses the same inherent Wisdom (Prajna) and virtuous characteristics as the Buddhas. We fail to realise this only because our minds are clouded by delusions and discriminations. I firmly believe that if your sincerity is absolute, even the hardest stone will open. You do not necessarily need a prestigious background or to be a person of great status to succeed. Even the most ordinary person can become a sage. This is the message of encouragement I have always shared with my disciples, for I know that everyone carries within them a hidden side of fear and inferiority. With proper guidance and support, everyone is capable of attaining supreme . You must first have confidence in your own nature.
The Wisdom of the Middle Way
While confidence is essential, it must not be confused with arrogance. You must understand that all things in this world operate according to the Middle Way. The most perfect state is one that is appropriate, balanced, and precisely measured. If you go too far, you miss the mark; if you do not go far enough, you also fail to reach the goal. This is a principle that every practitioner must deeply understand.
In this world, it is not only what we label as 'bad' that can hinder us; even 'good' things, when pursued to excess, can become obstacles. You must clarify this distinction within your own heart. True practice is always about working on oneself, not about focusing on the faults or actions of others. I have always spurred myself on with this understanding, for I am very clear about my own goals and the direction of my life.
A Singular Focus on Practice
I am here to practise. This is my only purpose. Anything that does not pertain to the work of practice has absolutely no connection to me. If I allow my mind to wander into matters that do not concern my cultivation, I am merely wasting the precious time I have been given. To illustrate this with my own life: my physical life was granted to me through the help of my mother, and I was reborn into this spiritual life for the sole purpose of serving my teacher. I have always kept this truth in my heart, and I have never forgotten it from the very beginning to this day. Therefore, I have never deviated from this singular goal.
Regarding the areas where Practitioner Su has requested my assistance, I am very clear about my role. I will certainly help. I will do my utmost to write down the benefits I have gained through my own practice, and I will do everything in my power to assist all of you. Let us work together to propagate the and spread the teachings of the Buddha. Namo Amituofo.
Recorded by the Buddha's disciple, Shi Faxi.
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About the Author
Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre
Contributed to Pure Land Buddhism knowledge library