While Chan is not the only
way to cultivate Buddhadharma, it is the essence or common ground of
all practices. What I mean is that Chan not only is established on
ethical living and stability of mind but also takes as its goal the
blossoming of bodhi—the full realization of wisdom and
compassion. From the time of Shakyamuni Buddha, all bodhisattvas,
Chan masters, and sincere practitioners have trod this path. Because
there is no single fixed method called “Chan,” various methods
have been embraced by Chan, including reciting a buddha's name,
mantra recitation, prostrations, and studying scriptures. Chan is
neither limited to sitting nor separate from daily life. If any of
the methods is used to the point where the mind is settled and
focused, then with the guidance of a master, methods like huatou or
silent illumination can be used to generate wisdom. Once genuine
wisdom is experienced—the letting go of body, mind, and the
world—confidence will become firm, character will be improved, and
compassion will be free from conditions.
---Master Sheng Yen---
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