Enlightenment Is Best When It Flows Naturally and Steadily

It is best to eliminate more karmic obstacles before enlightenment, so that after realization, one will not be overwhelmed and diverted by karmic forces, rendering the enlightenment futile. If virtue and merit are insufficient at the moment of enlightenment, karmic hindrances will quickly arise, and various demonic obstacles and interferences will emerge. Those lacking sufficient meditative stability may be dragged down, regress, and even lose their aspiration for the Path. Even if they do not retreat from the Path, the upheavals affecting the physical body and other aspects will be significant, and the pressure they must endure will be substantial.

Enlightenment is best achieved steadily and naturally, like water flowing into a channel. If all conditions are not fully met, if virtue and merit are deficient, and one rushes into enlightenment or attains it through extreme strain, demonic obstacles will come thick and fast, making it difficult for most people to endure. The most terrifying outcome is retreating from the Path under intense pressure, and it is uncertain when one might return. Usually, one should cultivate more virtue, eliminate more karmic obstacles, repent more, and enjoy fewer comforts. Only then, at critical moments, supported by accumulated virtue and merit, upheld by great vow power for those with strong vows, and protected by Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, and Dharma protectors, can one overcome the difficulties.