Directly Recognizing the Essence, Directly Reaching the Source

Directly recognize the essence, directly reach the source.

The issues one faces in life, when examined in essence, are fundamentally problems of the mind and the self. There are no problems between the mind and external objects because there is nothing outside the mind; there is no world outside the mind. From sentient beings to Buddhas, throughout life, we are all dealing with our own minds; some are aware of it, while others are not, leading to completely different life experiences.

For ordinary people, their entire lives are spent engaging in ignorant actions that arise from their own minds, yet few realize this; for Bodhisattvas, they continuously work on observing their own minds internally, striving to keep their minds from grasping at themselves; for Buddhas, they spend their lives using their own minds while living a conscious life immersed in the vast ocean of Dharma.

Ordinary people grasp at their own minds and create illusions from illusions; Bodhisattvas observe their own minds and skillfully name this as self-liberation; Buddhas use their own minds and play within the vast ocean of Dharma. These three types of individuals lead different lives due to varying understandings of the mind and how they engage with it. Different people have different understandings of the mind and different relationships with its functions, thus revealing distinctions among the three vehicles.

As practitioners on our path, we are all Bodhisattvas; therefore, we engage in observing our own minds. The purpose of observing our minds is to maintain our awareness without grasping at it, avoiding entanglement in illusions so that we can live a simple, pure, and joyful life. Regardless of whether thoughts arise or awareness fades away, our original mind remains intact. Our original mind cannot be obtained nor can it be lost; it simply exists there with its myriad transformations and miraculous powers.

Ever-changing yet unchanging in nature—this is our original heart. Recognizing this heart allows us to penetrate to its root; amidst countless changes and transformations, it remains unmoved—this is what every practitioner ultimately strives to achieve. Form, sensation, perception, mental formations, consciousness—even pure awareness—all arise from this heart’s function. We must understand from its use back to its essence. Directly recognize the essence and directly reach the source to become fully awakened as a Buddha.

Do not concern yourself with whether thoughts are real or illusory; do not question whether awareness exists or not—just experience it to reach the essence. If you recognize your true nature without being swept away by worldly dust; if you recognize your true nature you will cut through all doubts; if you recognize your true nature you will not question right or wrong; if you recognize your true nature you will allow for all functions freely; if you recognize your true nature then you will be like a Buddha. Seek out your essence, recognize your essence—use your essence through your essence—transcend above all phenomena.

by Taiwan Fearless Tathagata Ya Great Perfection Zen Meditation Center