Knowing and Not Knowing

On the seventh of August, 2020, during the second session of the Thrice Yearning Ceremony, Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju provided these profound teachings on the nature of knowledge and the path to true liberation.

The Infinite and the Finite

Our worldly knowledge is limited, yet the unknown is infinite. Knowledge of this world is constantly shifting and changing, like floating clouds and a light breeze. However, the Universal Principle, the Truth, and the Right Way remain eternal and unchanging. Because many people fail to distinguish between worldly knowledge and the Truth, they become confused and fall into delusion. Consequently, they create karma and remain reincarnated.

The Burden of Intellectual Attachment

When we cling to what we think we know, our hearts become clouded with afflictions, and the karma of confusion manifests. Conversely, when we let go of these intellectual burdens, we find a state of cool, refreshing clarity, where the heart remains unstained by the world. This leads us to a vital question: is it better to know, or is it better not to know?

The Art of Transformation

Whether you possess knowledge or not, the key is the ability to transform your state of mind. A wise person is one who can master this process of inner alchemy:

• Transforming afflictions into cool, refreshing peace.
• Transforming confusion into a pure, luminous heart.
• Transforming consciousness into wisdom.

Whether you are dealing with worldly knowledge or the ultimate Truth, and whether you are living in the world or engaged in spiritual practice, the question remains: is it better to know, or is it better not to know?

The Freedom of the Awakened Being

If you can understand the present moment, accept these teachings with faith, and put them into practice, then you truly know. However, if you become attached to the concepts of knowing or not knowing, or if you fixate on words and names to judge right from wrong, you would be better off not knowing at all. Regardless of whether you know or do not know, do not let these things weigh upon your heart.

When you need to use knowledge, it is there; when you do not need it, it is absent. You may know, or you may not know; you may transform, or you may choose not to transform. This state of effortless, natural existence is the essence of awareness. It is the very appearance of an awakened being.

This message was written by the chief writer, the Buddha's disciple, Venerable HaiZe.

Namo Amituofo