釋四願 TY Second Vow

辛未年三月二十日例統科

濟佛訓曰:

在未入修之前。各人之品行和行為。可以不必論之。然一經求修。乃為吾道修子。故應時時刻刻不要忘了自己已是另一身份。而以自省自檢作為日常必須約束者也。這第一願與第二願是有連帶關係的。第二願為願造上乘。今日老祖特訓 老衲。要將一二願之不同點。和其必須說明白者。最好清楚的一談。蓋佛乘乃佛家大修之要義。分為大乘及小乘兩個不同之法。而以乘來比喻。就是以乘載之分。四馬為大乘。二馬或一馬為小乘。因此佛家對人而言。則有人之智愚或淺深之要求。故在禪宗說法時而稱上乘。吾道之上乘即從此而出。坐院 達祖乃禪宗始。以後幾傳至六祖。一而禪宗則大展大化。 老衲不多深云之。但必須知道此上乘者。是超過大小兩乘之功德。在求功德者。亦應明白內功外行為何。內功簡言之。為坐誦養修等等。外行就是行慈行義。吾所談者。一般皆以為功行容易。豈不知凡是能成道之先哲先賢。必須行六度始可得道。此度也就是佛乘中之菩薩乘。此六度者乃指六波羅密也。即是渡彼岸也。再談六度。
一、是布施:布施是全心之獻。布施的大小多少並不一樣。這要衡量自身的財富和收入。故一談奉獻時。就有者斤斤計較。此非修人所持之態度也。
二、是持戒:可以止惡得善。在未入修前一切惡行惡事。都應從今時起都予以摒除。並不再回顧。這就是邁入正覺正途。自此時起乃心正意凝。亦就是不再存邪思
妄念。等於從新做人。
三 是忍辱:此是分開說。或一同解都可。忍能化解一切。而個人能忍者。必是涵養有素。寬宏量大胸襟開闊。這是在無形和有形中都看出一個人的氣量和修養。不但是平常待人處事以及接物。言談亦然。其風度為眾人所欽佩也。所謂辱者。是恥辱。能知恥就為有君子之風。
四、是精進:人倫之境應求其適應。為世界宇宙之慈濟而大化。修人須抱濟世之願。才是度己度人之結果有成矣。所以說上乘之造。是明白的要求深造。實踐道慈之度世心願也。
五、是禪定:即是靜思維也。一切思慮都要靜下心來。做一番慎思明辨。知道好壞。明白是非。才是做人的主要條件。
六、要智慧:無智慧如何能理解道義。此道義乃包括了五教教義。要群知而貫通之。各教教義其共同之精髓。為仁愛之頂點。如果大家去深入研究。必然很明顯的看出來。所以說任何世事。都是從仁為出發點。
而順便一言者是小乘。乃辟支乘與聲聞乘。此二乘之修人。是以自修自度為原則。吾道之上乘法門。亦就是 達祖傳示之坐法。而以普濟度人度世度眾生也。

Buddha Ji delves into the core principles of self-cultivation and the diverse paths within Buddhism, particularly contrasting the Greater Vehicle (大乘, Dàchéng) and the Lesser Vehicle (小乘, Xiǎochéng) within the context of Zen Buddhism.

Self-Cultivation and Identity

Before embarking on the path of self-cultivation, individuals may not have felt the need to scrutinize their behaviors and character. However, once they commit to this journey, they must recognize their new identity as cultivators on the Way (道). This transformation necessitates daily introspection and discipline, becoming integral to their spiritual practice. The first and second vows are interconnected, with the latter emphasizing the aspiration to attain the Greater Vehicle.

The Greater and Lesser Vehicles

The Greater Vehicle is often likened to a large cart capable of carrying many people, while the Lesser Vehicle is compared to a smaller cart that can only transport a few. This metaphor reflects the varying levels of wisdom and aspiration among practitioners.

In Zen teachings, this concept is often referred to as the “superior vehicle” (上乘), which transcends both the Greater and Lesser Vehicles in terms of merit and spiritual accomplishment. The Zen tradition traces its origins back to the Sixth Patriarch, Huineng (慧能), who played a pivotal role in its development.

The Path of Bodhisattvas

The attainment of spiritual merit requires a harmonious balance of internal practices (內功) and external actions (外行). Internal practices encompass meditation, recitation, and personal cultivation, while external actions involve acts of compassion and righteousness. It is important to note that achieving enlightenment is not a straightforward endeavor, as exemplified by historical figures who attained enlightenment through the rigorous practice of the “Six Perfections” (六度) or “Six Paramitas” (六波罗密), essential for progressing on the Bodhisattva path.

These Six Perfections correspond to the concept of “crossing to the other shore” (渡彼岸), which signifies transitioning from suffering to enlightenment. This journey is central to Buddhist practice and encapsulates not only the goal of personal salvation but also the aspiration to aid all sentient beings in their quest for enlightenment.

The concept of “六度” (Six Perfections) or “Six Paramitas” (六波罗密) in Buddhism is a framework for spiritual practice, particularly emphasized in Mahayana Buddhism. Each of the six perfections—generosity (布施), moral discipline (持戒), patience (忍辱), diligence (精進), meditation (禪定), and wisdom (智慧)—serves as a guideline for developing one’s character and aiding others on the path to enlightenment. Below is a detailed exploration of each perfection.

The concept of “六度” (Six Perfections) or “Six Paramitas” (六波罗密) in Buddhism is a framework for spiritual practice, particularly emphasized in Mahayana Buddhism. Each of the six perfections—generosity (布施), moral discipline (持戒), patience (忍辱), diligence (精進), meditation (禪定), and wisdom (智慧)—serves as a guideline for developing one’s character and aiding others on the path to enlightenment. Below is a detailed exploration of each perfection.

Giving/Generosity (布施)

Giving and Generosity is viewed as a heartfelt offering, where the act of giving transcends mere material donations. The essence of giving and generosity lies not in the quantity given but in the intention behind it. It requires an honest evaluation of one’s resources and a willingness to share them without selfish calculations. This selfless act is fundamental in fostering compassion and community, as it emphasizes the interconnectedness of all beings. True generosity is often described as a means to cultivate personal happiness, suggesting that what we give to others ultimately enriches our own lives.

Moral Discipline To Hold Precepts (持戒)

Moral discipline to hold Precepts involves the commitment to refrain from harmful actions and to cultivate positive behaviors. Before embarking on spiritual practice, individuals are encouraged to eliminate negative actions from their lives and to adopt a mindset focused on ethical living. This discipline is not merely about following rules; it represents a transformative process where one’s thoughts and intentions align with virtuous conduct. By doing so, individuals embark on a journey toward clarity and right understanding, effectively ‘becoming new people’ through their commitment to ethical principles.

Patience (忍辱)

Patience is often misunderstood as passivity or weakness; however, it embodies strength and resilience. The ability to endure hardship without resentment reflects profound inner strength and wisdom. This quality allows individuals to maintain composure in challenging situations, fostering an environment where conflicts can be resolved peacefully. Patience is not just about enduring but also about understanding the nature of suffering and responding with compassion rather than anger. It cultivates a dignified demeanor that earns respect from others.

Diligence (精進)

Diligence represents the effort put into personal growth and the pursuit of enlightenment. It calls for an active engagement with life’s challenges, encouraging individuals to strive for improvement in both themselves and their communities. This relentless pursuit of virtue is seen as essential for achieving success in any endeavor, particularly in spiritual practice. Diligence ensures that one remains focused on their goals, overcoming obstacles through persistent effort and commitment.

Meditation (禪定)

Meditation serves as a method for calming the mind and fostering deep reflection. It involves quieting thoughts to gain clarity on what constitutes good and evil, right and wrong. This practice is crucial for developing mental stability and insight, allowing practitioners to discern their true nature and the nature of reality. Meditation encourages an inner stillness that enhances one’s ability to engage thoughtfully with the world.

Wisdom (智慧)

Wisdom is considered the culmination of the previous five perfections. It encompasses understanding the fundamental truths of existence, including the interconnectedness of all beings and the impermanence of life. Wisdom enables individuals to grasp complex teachings across various schools of thought while recognizing their shared essence rooted in compassion and love. It serves as a guiding light for ethical decision-making, ensuring that actions align with deeper values.

In summary, these six perfections are not isolated practices but interrelated components that together foster personal development and social harmony. They encourage individuals to transcend self-interest, cultivate virtues, and contribute positively to society while progressing on their spiritual journey toward enlightenment.

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