The Function of Names and Marks

In the first step of studying and practicing the Dharma, it is very important to clarify the terminology (names and concepts). If one cannot even understand the terminology, one cannot enter the threshold of the Buddha's teachings. Once the terminology has been clarified, one should then remove it from one's own mind—having grasped the meaning, one may forget the words. However, when communicating with others or guiding the community in practice, it is truly difficult to manage without terminology, for otherwise others will not know what you are talking about. If everyone has grasped the meaning, then terminology is no longer of much use; with simple expression, everyone will know what is being said, and there will be no misunderstanding.