The Obstacle of Letters Arises from Deficient Concentration and Wisdom

Chinese characters and their meanings require us to engage in thoughtful analysis and study to grasp their true significance. Only those without obstacles in understanding written language can easily comprehend the Dharma correctly and give rise to continuous wisdom. Those hindered by textual barriers cannot truly grasp the essential meaning when reading a passage; they often misinterpret it, preventing their wisdom from increasing. In interactions among sentient beings, if obstacles in language and writing cause mutual misunderstanding and hinder communication, interactions become filled with distress and helplessness. People who are perceptive have fewer linguistic barriers; they excel at discerning others' thoughts, communicate easily, and encounter fewer obstacles in social interactions.

People vary greatly in their level of textual comprehension. Why do some have such a low level of understanding? A coarse and inattentive mind, lack of concentration, absence of wisdom, and deficiency in merit and virtue—these are the primary issues. When the text clearly does not convey a certain meaning, some people still perceive it that way, refusing to reflect on themselves or introspect. Many only scrutinize others, not themselves—this is a manifestation of a heavy sense of self. They then believe their understanding is correct, unhesitatingly dismissing others and engaging in debates. This impulsiveness precisely reveals a lack of meditative concentration and wisdom, an inability to examine oneself and correctly evaluate oneself and others. A wise person possesses a very meticulous mind, capable of observing others truthfully and introspecting genuinely. Without observational and introspective abilities, it indicates poor concentration and insufficient wisdom.