Many who consider themselves wise find themselves at a loss when confronted with Zen koans. Others, believing themselves enlightened, attempt to explain these koans but end up mired entirely in worldly interpretations, which are popular among the common folk who enjoy reading them without truly grasping their deeper essence. Some students of Buddhism become trapped within the shell of words, dissecting texts and vocabulary, analyzing endlessly until they grasp a superficial understanding, then presume they have attained the Way. They spread this fragmented knowledge everywhere, their arrogance swelling.
In truth, the practice of Buddhism is not about burrowing into the shell of words. Just as the essence of poetry lies beyond the words, genuine cultivation lies in diligently practicing the Six Perfections of the Bodhisattva: subduing afflictions, elevating one’s mental and moral character, cultivating blessings and virtue, and strengthening meditative concentration. Progress in these areas refines the conditions for becoming a Bodhisattva. It is not about burying oneself in texts all day, studying words alone. If Buddhist practice were merely a matter of textual skill, then graduate students and PhD holders could all become Mahayana Bodhisattvas who see their true nature through enlightenment. Yet, reality proves otherwise.
There are also those who emphasize that taking the Three Refuges or upholding the Five Precepts is unnecessary, claiming that earnest investigation of texts alone can lead to seeing one’s true nature. If this were so, then non-Buddhists—who are often clever and sharp—could comprehend the Dharma simply by studying Buddhist texts, without even needing faith in Buddhism. However, they can never become genuine Bodhisattvas of true realization. Even if they grasp some answers intellectually, they are not Mahayana Bodhisattvas, for they lack the awakened wisdom and the Bodhisattva’s compassionate mind.
Clever individuals are everywhere. After delving into Buddhist texts for a while, they may understand some superficial aspects. Yet, because they lack the Bodhisattva’s mind and nature, they can never become true Bodhisattvas. They will not receive the blessings, protection, or empowerment of Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, or Dharma-protecting deities. Consequently, they cannot attain genuine enlightenment.
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