Addressing and Counteracting Latent Defilements

Everyone possesses dormant defilements that they are unaware of or find difficult to observe; these only manifest under specific causes and conditions. Is it better to actively participate in social activities to bring them to the surface, or to practice in seclusion to prevent their manifestation?

Dormant defilements primarily refer to the habitual tendencies of defilements. Greed, hatred, delusion, arrogance, doubt, and wrong views are the defilements themselves. Without attaining the first dhyana or reaching the third fruition, these defilements cannot be eradicated; they will manifest when the opportunity arises, though their intensity varies among individuals. The concept of dormant defilements means that the habitual tendencies of defilements lie dormant within the mind-consciousness and are not easily detected. These tendencies begin to be severed from the first-ground Bodhisattva stage; ordinary beings and Arhats lack the capacity to eliminate them. If the manifestation of defilements is too severe, one should cultivate meditative concentration more diligently and contemplate the principle of non-self. If one cannot detect them oneself yet wishes to subdue them, one must hone oneself among people, accept others' feedback, and be adept at following good advice; one should not become resentful or commit unwholesome actions when others point them out. If this is the case, one should minimize interaction with crowds. If not, one should frequently reflect on one's bodily, verbal, and mental actions amidst people and humbly heed others' admonitions.

Both subduing and eradicating defilements occur in the midst of encountering circumstances: one recognizes the arising of defilements, reflects inwardly, and severs them immediately. If one distances oneself from people, defilements are less likely to manifest and thus remain undetected, hidden within the mind with no opportunity for eradication. When reborn in other Buddha-lands, where conditions are entirely favorable, defilements have no chance to manifest, making their eradication difficult and spiritual progress slow. Although life may be comfortable, the advancement on the path proceeds very gradually.