The Exemplary Teacher

To be a teacher is to transmit the Dharma, impart knowledge, and resolve the doubts of others. In the context of the world, a teacher serves as a vital model for students. They guide them in the acquisition of knowledge, in the art of interacting with others, in the establishment of their character and career, and in the refinement of their speech and conduct. Even when faced with disputes or conflicting opinions, a teacher must demonstrate how to navigate these challenges by applying the Universal Principle, the Truth, and the Right Way. These are the directions in which students look to learn and grow.

The Spiritual Teacher and the Path of Awakening

In the context of the spiritual world, a teacher who appears in the world must first be an awakened being. Only after one has realised their true nature can they fully integrate and master the Sutra, Vinaya, and Abhidharma, which comprise the Tripitaka. Through their cultivation and virtue, such a teacher becomes a guide not only for those in the six realms of existence but also for celestial beings across the ten directions of the Dharma Realm. Without deep cultivation and virtue, and without the profound Wisdom (Prajna) that comes from deep practice, how could one possibly pacify and guide the multitude of beings?

When the ocean of Wisdom (Prajna) is deep and vast, it manifests as the ability to guide others. The light of the heart, which shines from within, naturally radiates a gentle and elegant fragrance of virtue. In the oneness of all things, whatever one sees, hears, or encounters—regardless of the other person's state—one treats them as one would treat oneself, with pure compassion. If others have faults, one responds with a vast mind-capacity. Who among us is without fault? Therefore, do not speak of the rights and wrongs of others. Instead, ensure that you yourself are walking upon the righteous path. This is the true conduct of a teacher.

The Practice of Universal Respect

In every interaction, whether advancing or retreating, one must always maintain a sense of propriety and respect. This applies to everyone you encounter:

• Parents and elders, who deserve our deepest gratitude.Friends, relatives, brothers, and sisters, who share our journey.Peers and colleagues, who walk alongside us.Juniors and children, who represent the future.The lonely, the helpless, the impoverished, and the sick, who require our care.Fellow practitioners, Venerables, lay practitioners, and volunteers, who support the work of the Dharma.

You must realise that all of these individuals are Buddhas in disguise. By practising respect for all Buddhas, you remove all discriminations of high and low. This is the true hallmark of a teacher.

Responding to the World with Virtue

If someone treats you with malice, do not return that malice with further evil. If you are subjected to criticism or slander, do not take it as an insult. If you truly possess virtue, you need not offer any defence; simply let it pass. Your dignity and prestige are established by your own conduct, not by the opinions of others. When someone treats you with goodness, hold that kindness in your heart and ensure that you repay it with even greater goodness. Give more than you receive, and do not hold back. In the midst of all conditions, the ability to apply these methods with ease and wisdom is the true way. This is the conduct of a teacher.

This message was recorded by the Buddha's disciple, Venerable HaiZe.