Why Does Greater Diligence Lead to More Hindrances?

Practicing Buddhism is like driving a vehicle against the wind or sailing a boat against the current—the faster the vehicle or boat moves, the greater the resistance. Karmic conditions are like the wind and water: yielding to them leads to rebirth in the Three Evil Realms, while resisting them leads to liberation and Nirvana. Naturally, yielding is comfortable, requiring no effort as one slides downward effortlessly. Resisting, however, brings heavy resistance and arduous steps. Nevertheless, practitioners should be courageous, unafraid of obstructive conditions. The greater the resistance and obstacles, the more fiercely they must break through them, never resigning themselves to the manipulation and control of karmic forces.

Breaking through the barrier of karmic obstacles in one determined effort is the most efficient method. Retreating upon encountering resistance only ensures perpetual barriers obstructing liberation. For those who practice Buddhism with lukewarm diligence, no obstructive conditions will arise—their families remain harmonious, careers flourish, health remains robust, wealth accumulates steadily, and all worldly affairs proceed smoothly, free from interference or demonic hindrances. Because you lack diligence and show no sign of seeking liberation, there is no need to disturb you. After all, you remain a guest destined for the Three Evil Realms; thus, creditors need not worry about collecting debts, and adversaries need not fear you slipping from their grasp. Due to this lack of diligence, you fail to stir the dormant karmic seeds, preventing them from ripening prematurely and bringing retribution. Once retribution is exhausted, one becomes debt-free and advances smoothly in practice. However, if the karmic seeds remain unripe and conditions unmanifested, they continue to lie dormant within the Tathagatagarbha, binding you to the endless cycle of rebirth within the Six Realms, forever obstructing liberation.