The Mind-Body Problem and Buddhist Practice and Realization

Question: The Surangama Sutra states that all sentient beings mistakenly regard the Four Great Elements as their own body and the reflections of the Six Dusts as their own mind. It suggests that unraveling this mystery essentially completes the exposition of the Buddha Dharma. However, how can the seeds of affection and hatred accumulated over countless lifetimes be eradicated?

Answer: Resolving the problem of body and mind does not mean the Buddha Dharma is fully expounded; there remain the vast and profound matters of Vijñāna and Jñāna to be studied and cultivated. First, sever the view of self; then, realize the Mind and perceive the True Nature. Attaining the Vijñāna Jñāna and entering the First Ground (Prathamabhūmi), the defiled seeds will gradually be purified. When the seeds of affection and hatred are completely severed, one attains Buddhahood. It is necessary to eliminate the habitual tendencies of afflictions within the mind when conditions manifest, thereby severing the defiled seeds.

However, when the problem of body and mind is completely, thoroughly, and ultimately resolved, one attains Buddhahood. The Buddha Dharma is precisely for resolving the problem of body and mind. 'Body' includes the internal physical body and the external body—the universe, the vessel-world, and the living environment. 'Mind' refers to the seven consciousnesses. When all seven consciousnesses are transformed into wisdom, the body-mind world completely falls away and is transformed. Both the Sambhogakāya Buddha and the Nirmāṇakāya Buddha are accomplished, and the world transforms into a pure Buddha-land.