How to Understand the Equality Between Sentient Beings and Buddhas

Sentient beings and Buddhas are equal only in the true suchness of Buddha-nature; as long as Buddha-nature exists, all sentient beings will ultimately attain Buddhahood. What makes them unequal are the illusory appearances of the five aggregates manifested and transformed by suchness within the mundane world. Illusory appearances remain illusory in the end; what should truly be focused upon is the truth that is neither born nor extinguished. However, to view truth equally rather than illusion, one must first realize that illusory appearances are indeed empty and devoid of self, then realize the truth, and further observe how illusory the illusions are and how true the truth is, until the mind becomes thoroughly clear and aware. Only from then on, upon encountering sentient beings, can one perceive their true nature, see through the illusory appearances, and ultimately become unattached to all appearances. Thus, the mind attains equality, and one acquires the wisdom of equality.

After realizing that illusory appearances are empty and devoid of self, one begins to subdue afflictions, and at a certain point, will be able to completely eradicate them. Upon realizing the truth, one similarly subdues and eradicates afflictions, gradually eliminating the attachment to self and phenomena. The mind becomes increasingly pure and equal, ultimately achieving the perfect clarity of the four wisdoms and attaining the path of Buddhahood. In this way, sentient beings and Buddhas are not only equal in truth but also equal in the illusory appearances of the five-aggregate world. This is complete and thorough true equality.