The Essence of Diligent Practice
Teachings from Bodhisattva Ashvaghosha
Recorded on February 15, 2019
The Purity of One-Pointed Focus
Diligent practice is defined by a state of being pure and unmixed. It is the commitment to delve deeply into a single path. To be diligent means to move forward with unwavering resolve, never retreating. In the context of our current talks, we often emphasise that one should not attempt to do too many things at once, nor should one mix various practices that lead to confusion. Whether you are chanting the Buddha-name, reciting the Sutras, or performing prostrations, you must be diligent.
When you are chanting the Buddha-name, there should be nothing but the Buddha-name in your mind, free from all delusions. When you are reciting the Sutras, there should be nothing but the sacred text, free from messy thoughts. When you are performing prostrations, your ears should be filled only with the sound of the Buddha-name, with no room for any wandering imagination. Therefore, the true value of practice lies in focusing on one path, concentrating your mind, and working hard every single day. To move forward without ever looking back—this is what we call true diligent practice.
The Integration of Body and Mind
Diligent practice must also be applied when you listen to the Dharma. When you listen to sutras and hear the Dharma, you must do so without any messy thoughts; you must understand clearly. When you perform prostrations, let the sound of the Buddha-name enter your heart, leaving no space for idle thoughts. In this way, your body is purified through the act of bowing.
When you are chanting the Buddha-name, your body and mind must become one, fully focused on the Buddha-name. The sound must enter your ears and penetrate your heart. As your mouth chants the Buddha-name, your body attains a state of pure purification. When you gaze upon the Buddha, and your eyes meet the compassionate gaze of the Buddha, your heart opens, your body becomes clear, and you receive the Buddha’s light throughout your entire being.
Measuring Progress in the Western Land
To all the Bodhisattvas and virtuous ones in the Western Land of Dharma Nature, remember that diligent practice resides in the heart and in your actions. Do not concern yourself with the length of time you have spent in practice; instead, focus on how much heart you have invested. You may ask yourself daily if you are truly making progress. Ask your own heart if it has become more compassionate.
- If you find that you are still standing in the same place,
- If your Wisdom has not grown,
- If your afflictions have not lessened,
- If you have not become more compassionate,
Then you must strive to be even more diligent. You must re-examine your practice and deepen your commitment.
A Path of Constant Advancement
Never forget the spirit of diligent practice. It is a path that only moves forward, never backward. While we often say that practice is simple, it is not an easy task if it is not accompanied by genuine action. Those who study the Buddha’s teachings must never be lazy or slack. At every moment, you must be diligent and apply yourself to your practice. This is the only way to truly succeed.
Ma Ming
Recorded by the Buddha's disciple, Shi Hailiang.
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About the Author
Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre
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