The Continual Need for Buddha’s Teachings
In Buddhism, it’s important to understand that Buddha’s teachings are not a one-time read or a fixed set of instructions. They offer timeless wisdom that remains relevant in every moment of our lives. Just as we continuously need water to sustain ourselves, we require the nourishment of Buddha’s teachings, which are synonymous with wisdom, throughout our journey. These teachings provide profound insights into reality, the mind, and the path to liberation. They guide us in cultivating wisdom and compassion, essential for navigating life’s challenges. Recognizing the perpetual need for wisdom is crucial; we cannot declare that we no longer require it.
Repeating Buddha’s Teachings: Like Breathing and Drinking Water
Some people hesitate to revisit Buddhist texts, believing they have already absorbed their content. However, this overlooks the nature of learning and growth. Just as we cannot stop breathing without consequences, we must continually breathe life into Buddha’s teachings to nurture our happiness and accumulate merit.
Repetition plays a significant role in integrating Buddhist principles into our daily lives. Just as we repeatedly practice acts of love, compassion, and renunciation, we must also repeat acts of faith and, most importantly, wisdom. These repetitions are like drinking water and breathing—essential practices that sustain and invigorate our spiritual well-being.
The effort we put into our practice directly influences the results we obtain. Wholeheartedly dedicating ourselves to the teachings brings transformative outcomes, while minimal practice may yield less noticeable effects. Wisdom and compassion in our lives lead to a more comfortable existence with reduced suffering. Thus, diligently and consistently repeating Buddha’s teachings holds great significance.
Believing in Buddha’s Omniscient Wisdom and Presence
As Buddhists, it is crucial to embrace the belief that Buddha exists both in front of us and within the depths of our hearts. Buddha’s omniscient wisdom transcends physical boundaries and is ever-present. When contemplating Buddha, we shouldn’t perceive Buddha as being somewhere else or compare Buddha to inanimate objects like rocks or mountains. Instead, we should recognize Buddha’s pervasive presence in our lives.
Why does Buddha reside within the mind of every being? It is because Buddha loves us and strives to facilitate our happiness and the causes of happiness. The ultimate source of happiness lies within our minds, so Buddha remains within us, helping us nurture and enhance our well-being while alleviating suffering and its causes.
Our minds, including our own, are invaluable treasures. By deeply believing in Buddha’s presence and being aware of it, we can experience the transformative power of this connection. It’s similar to momentarily forgetting the beauty of our environment and then regaining happiness upon remembering it. Likewise, though we may occasionally forget Buddha’s presence, it’s crucial to remember and be aware of Buddha’s existence, especially during prayer and contemplation. Even dedicating a few minutes to prayer signifies Buddha’s presence and influence.
Buddha Shakyamuni, the historical Buddha, did not cease to exist. Omniscient wisdom cannot perish. Similarly, our minds, along with the minds of all beings, are imperishable. Buddha’s omniscient wisdom resides in the mind of every single being, fostering a profound connection. That’s why we pay homage and offer our respects through the phrase “Namo Buddhaya.”
Believing that Buddha Shakyamuni knows, loves, cares for, and blesses us is essential. Our shortage doesn’t lie in the scarcity of Buddha’s blessings, but rather in the scarcity of positive thinking, positive conduct, and positive actions. Connecting our minds to Buddha and maintaining this belief are vital components of our spiritual journey.
In conclusion, let us never abandon our aspiration to attain Buddhahood. Recognizing the ongoing need.