To understand the method of liberation from afflictions.
Where is liberation? The moment when afflictions transform is liberation. Who seeks liberation? It is sentient beings who seek liberation. So, who are these sentient beings?
Sentient beings are the five poisons and afflictions within your heart. If we do not observe our own thoughts and intentions, these delusions arising from the five poisons will harm ourselves and others. If we do not transform negative thoughts into great compassion and wisdom, it is as terrifying as swallowing poison without timely treatment. We must understand that all thoughts and intentions are causes in this life that will become results in the future; therefore, we must constantly observe our own thoughts and intentions, transforming all negative motivations into the Bodhi mind, compassionate heart, or the state of great perfection, allowing good thoughts and intentions to grow day by day.
The root of suffering in samsara lies in these delusions produced by the five poisons. Regardless of what situation you encounter—whether joyful or painful—if you have understood how to transform afflictions, you can change your inner turmoil at that moment; then I see your practice is nearly successful. In that case, even if you have not studied extensively or practiced for many years, as long as you persist in your practice like this, your realization and liberation will naturally come. However, if you do not know how to transform afflictions, then no matter how many years you spend in retreat or practicing methods, it can only be said that you have a little merit from meditation and a little merit from listening to teachings or reciting scriptures; it would be very difficult for you to attain realization in this life or during the intermediate state.
What is the purpose of our meditation? It is to tame our own minds; reciting scriptures serves this purpose too; circumambulating sacred sites serves this purpose as well; listening and contemplating also serve this purpose. If negative thoughts arise but can be transformed immediately so they cease to exist at that moment, then your suffering in samsara will naturally come to an end. Your faith in Buddha, Dharma, yourself, and great compassion for sentient beings will naturally arise. If you do not understand these methods, true faith in Buddha-Dharma and the Three Jewels (Buddha, Dharma, Sangha) will not arise within you. Therefore, we must constantly observe and adjust our own thoughts and intentions—whether through listening or practical application—and regardless of which method we practice; when negative delusions first arise, we must find ways to transform them so they cease to exist. Once you know how to transform and cease them effectively, continue practicing until these methods become familiar and skilled within your heart; only then do you have hope of escaping the suffering of samsara. If you do not engage in practical application but only listen or watch without action—no matter how much or how broadly you hear—it is like what Lama Rinpoche said: “It’s useless!” What is the purpose of our practice? It is to liberate ourselves from afflictions; only by liberating ourselves from afflictions can we escape samsara. The key points for liberating oneself from afflictions are extremely important—especially important! If one does not understand how to liberate oneself from afflictions, it indicates that we have yet to enter the Buddhist path—do you understand? Therefore everyone should carefully examine whether there are any issues with their practice.
【Words of Wisdom from Compassionate Rinpoche】Buddhas and Bodhisattvas do not come from emptiness; they arise from the transformation of our ordinary minds through compassion and wisdom. The greater the wisdom and purity of heart one has, the fewer afflictions there will be—and thus greater assurance regarding liberation.