Zen Patriarchs Most Abhor Disciples' Intellectual Speculation

Many modern practitioners of Buddhism enjoy engaging in research, particularly scholars and literati, yet research falls within the realm of the conscious mind, akin to emotional reasoning or intellectual understanding.

In truth, the cultivation and realization of the Dharma is absolutely not about research, nor can it be achieved through emotional reasoning or speculative interpretation. Patriarchs of the Chan tradition in the past particularly cautioned against such speculative reasoning. Yet today, it is openly practiced—brazen speculation and emotional reasoning abound, while earnest, genuine practice is neglected. Witnessing Buddhism gradually deteriorate in this way, what can be done?

The pace of worldly life has accelerated, and fast food has become popular, leading to widespread physical unhealthiness. Buddhism, too, has followed this trend, adopting a "fast-food" approach, resulting in unhealthy thinking—a pathological state that goes unrecognized, even celebrated as virtuous.

This "Buddhist fast food" arises from the restless minds of the masses, and its outcome is even greater restlessness. Many have become glib-tongued and superficial in practice, neglecting genuine cultivation. Therefore, Buddhism is not a religion of research; it demands verification and steadfast, step-by-step practice. It requires relinquishing attachment to body and mind, a profound awakening from the very marrow of one’s being, a complete inner and outer transformation from head to toe. Only then can consciousness truly be transformed into wisdom, giving rise to a wholly new self and a world of aggregates like that of a Buddha.

The path of cultivation is long; it must be taken slowly, for haste is often unwise. Crucially, the foundation of the Dharma must be firmly laid. One must not seek quick results, nor build a skyscraper on sand—without a foundation, no matter how tall the structure, it will eventually collapse. In our study of the Dharma, we should proceed steadily, avoiding the pursuit of swift realization of the true nature of mind. Otherwise, the consequences are severe, detrimental to both Buddhism and the individual.

It is hoped that when conditions are not yet ripe, or when merit and virtue are lacking, one should not rush into Chan meditation or hasten toward realizing the mind. An unstable foundation is like building a castle in the air—it risks collapse one day. The harms of seeking rapid enlightenment will gradually manifest: progress on the path will slow, arrogance will easily arise (which is the greatest obstacle to the Way), and one may even create unwholesome karma, leading to future retribution.

When conditions are insufficient, do not pursue swift enlightenment. Instead, contemplate diligently the principle of non-self and observe it in practice, solidly eradicating the view of self. This brings great benefit to oneself, others, and the community.

People today suffer from particularly heavy afflictions, all arising from the self. Once the view of self is thoroughly eradicated, afflictions diminish, and the likelihood of creating unwholesome karma lessens. If one realizes the mind without fully eradicating the view of self, they may still create unwholesome karma due to the self, unaware of their actions—perhaps even justifying their unwholesome deeds as virtuous. Thus, the merit and benefit of genuinely eradicating the view of self are immense. This is the most crucial step in the study and practice of Buddhism.