The Wisdom of Speaking Less

The Peril of Excessive Speech

It is a common observation that speaking too much inevitably leads to loss. This occurs because every word we utter is rooted in our every thought and intention. When we speak without restraint, we are often merely reacting to the external world, allowing our hearts to be pulled in countless directions by the information we receive through our Six Roots. If the person we are interacting with is also caught in a whirlwind of scattered thoughts and intentions, the situation becomes even more volatile.

If you lack the strength of meditative concentration, your heart will easily fluctuate. You will find yourself changing in response to the shifting external environment. In such moments, your true self is easily swayed by the world around you. When the person you are communicating with is also in a state of mental turbulence, you will inevitably be influenced by their state, leading to a cycle of mutual agitation.

The Ripple Effect of Emotions

Whether these fluctuations lead to growth or destruction depends entirely on their nature. If the energy exchanged is positive and rooted in Goodness, it can bring about beneficial changes for both parties. However, if the energy is skewed or negative, it will inevitably lead to harmful consequences for everyone involved. When one party expresses themselves through emotional language, harsh facial expressions, or aggressive actions, it is very easy to trigger resentment or anger in the other person. In such situations, both sides usually end up wounded.

The Power of Meditative Concentration

This is precisely why meditative concentration is so vital. If you possess this inner stillness, you can choose not to speak excessively. You can awaken your awareness, refuse to be led by external circumstances, and effectively stop the cycle of agitation. By halting the fluctuations of the mind, you can prevent the expression of inappropriate, emotionally charged language, expressions, or actions. This is the most effective way to avoid the rise of anger—that destructive force often described as a fire that burns down the entire forest of one's accumulated merits.

When one party in a conflict maintains strong meditative concentration, they remain unswayed by the other person's provocations. They do not allow themselves to be drawn into anger or to mirror the other person's rage. Because of this, they can often resolve difficult situations with calm and grace. Therefore, those who are tasked with handling complex matters should ideally be individuals who possess deep meditative concentration and a high level of awareness.

The Path of the Awakened Being

For those who are still in practice and have not yet realised their true nature, the practice of speaking less is a necessary recognition and a vital behavioural guideline. In contrast, those who have realised their true nature possess a profound understanding of both the essence and the phenomena of life. They can face any person, object, or situation with a heart that remains unmoved. Because they have transcended the ego, there is no corresponding internal state to be triggered by external conditions. Their hearts do not fluctuate, and thus, problems either do not arise at all, or they are resolved with effortless ease.

Always remember: speak less, for excessive speech brings harm. Moderation is the key to a peaceful life. Keep this teaching close to your heart.

Namo Amituofo