This talk encourages us to use our own wisdom in daily life judgment and in choosing the right path for spiritual development. It introduces us to the four paths of wisdom. With wisdom, one can recognize who and what to rely on and to follow.
The talk contains four simple mottos:
1. Rely on the teachings, not the teachers.
2. Rely on the meanings, not the words.
3. Rely on the depth, not the superficial
4. Rely on wisdom, not on concepts.
Teachings, not Teachers
Choose a spiritual teacher is like choosing a surgeon. Do not be attracted by the appearance of a teacher (or charisma). Never let appearances fool you. Although you may benefit from reading books at the beginning of your Dharma studies, finding a right teacher is necessary for your spiritual development in the end. Criteria to choose the right teacher: the teacher’s skills in Dharma teaching; his/her understanding of meditation; and his/her knowledge about (understanding of) the Dharma. It is not easy to find a teacher who is good at both meditation and Dharma philosophy. And it is even more difficult to find a teacher who is good at meditation than to find one that is academically good at Dharma philosophy, although the latter may be good at teaching meditation at the basic level. However, at higher levels of meditation practice, you need a true master of meditation who actually made considerable progress and has attained merits on the Dharma Path.
A true Dharma teacher teaches what the Buddha said, and not what the teacher wants to say. Therefore understanding Buddhist teachings is very important. Beginners need to read books about the historical Buddha, His great disciples in the past, and the well-known and well- respected Dharma masters in history.
Meanings, not Words or Language
Impressive language may attract you, and influence you. But it is the meaning that counts. The meaning must be true. What are the criteria for true language?
First, it must be useful or bring benefits. Second, it must be true or correct. Words used become secondary to these two criteria. However, the right diction makes it easy to understand and listen to with joy.
Sometimes flowery language may be harmful, and carries no beneficial meaning. If you trust such words, you may be harmed.
Depth, not the Superficial
Many of us make judgments hastily and recklessly by relying on what others said or taught, or on traditions and stereotypes. For one’s spiritual development, it is very important to explore and study the Dharma teachings for yourself. Buddhism never advocates blind faith. In fact, you cannot make any progress on your spiritual development if you accept the ordinary and the mediocre. Buddha’s teachings are beneficial to various levels of understanding, depending on the listener’s or the practitioner’s level and ability. Even His basic and simple teachings carry profound messages for those who can recognize such meanings in them. Vishubandu said when you find a solution to one small problem, you may get to the breakthrough of a giant issue – your own ignorance. This can be achieved through meditation. You should not feel satisfied with your own shallow thoughts, nor should you criticize others.
Wisdom, not Concepts
This is what the most serious meditation practitioner aims their practice at –wisdom development in order to realize the True Mind. In order to attain this goal, you cannot think the dualistic way; you must become one with the True Mind. Meditation practitioners do not rely on the dualistic language and thinking. Logic and language cannot help one attain the ultimate goal, to become one with the True Mind. However persuasive and impressive our thoughts and language may be, they still cannot describe Enlightenment.
Conclusion
Remember to use these four paths of wisdom. Do not mislead yourself and others. Use the sword of wisdom to cut off all dualistic thoughts.
Source:
Shamar Rinpoche’s Dharma Talk at Phowa Ceremony at Bohdi Path, VA, on June 20, 2004.
http://www.thuvienhoasen.org/images/upload/PDF_Books/BonConDuongCuaTriTue.pdf
