Seeing Faults and Introspection

During the Thrice Yearning Ceremony, we gather to purify our hearts and minds, seeking to align ourselves with the wisdom of the Buddhas. On this day, July 2, 2021, Namo Amituofo provided profound guidance on the practice of introspection and the proper way to handle the faults we perceive in others. Chief writer of the teachings: Venerable HaiZe.

The Mirror of Introspection

When you observe a fault in another person, you must immediately turn your gaze inward to reflect upon your own heart. Unless you hold a specific duty or responsibility that requires you to correct the behaviour of others, you should refrain from speaking of their perceived shortcomings. First, look within yourself. If you find that you do not possess that same fault, you must remain vigilant and cautious, ensuring that you do not commit the same error and disturb others. If, upon reflection, you realise that you do indeed possess that same fault, then you must resolve to change it immediately.

You must understand that when you disturb others or commit a fault, you are planting the seeds of karmic causes. When the conditions for these seeds to ripen mature, you will inevitably experience the bitter fruits of suffering. Therefore, the practice of self-reflection is not merely a suggestion; it is a vital necessity for your spiritual journey.

The Responsibility of Correction

There are times when your position or duty requires you to correct the actions of another. In such moments, you must speak with a firm and clear tone, yet you must never allow anger to arise within you. Anger is a destructive force; it harms both the person you are addressing and yourself. Instead, you must speak from a place of meditative concentration and a calm, steady heart. Clearly and compassionately point out the other person's error, helping them to understand exactly where they have gone wrong and how their actions have caused a disturbance to others.

Receiving Correction with Gratitude

If you are the one being corrected, you should hold a heart of gratitude. When you are told of a fault, look within yourself once more. If you truly have that fault, change it quickly and do not repeat it. Be thankful to the person who has helped you stop your error. If you find that you do not have that fault, you should still be grateful to the person for helping you clear your spiritual obstacles. Without such opportunities to refine our character, it is difficult to resolve the conflict with our karmic creditors, and our deep-seated sins become incredibly difficult to eliminate.

You must never respond to correction with an angry gaze, an angry heart, or angry words. Do not point fingers at the other person, and do not harbour feelings of defiance or dissatisfaction. In that very moment, you must realise that by reacting with anger, you have already committed the faults of Body, Speech, and Mind. You must repent immediately and change your ways, for the path to awakening requires a heart that is humble, receptive, and free from the fires of resentment.