仏道修行の目的
The purpose of Buddhist practice
2024-04-03 18:00:00
The purpose of Buddhist practice is, of course, to attain enlightenment and become a Buddha oneself.
For this purpose, it is taught that Buddhist practice should prioritize oneself above all else.
Regarding this, in the original Buddhist scriptures of Shakyamuni Buddha, we can find the following principles.
68 Strive diligently to achieve the highest purpose, without faltering in spirit, without slackening in effort, engaging in steadfast action, endowed with physical and mental strength, walking alone like the horn of a rhinoceros. (The Words of the Buddha: Sutta Nipata Chapter 1: The Chapter on the Snake Verse 3: The Horn of the Rhinoceros Translated by Hajime Nakamura, Iwanami-Bunko)
166 Even if it may be important to others, one must not abandon their own duties for the sake of others' (not your own) goals. Know your own purpose well and dedicate yourself to your own duties. (The Words of Truth: Dhammapada Chapter 12: The Self Translated by Hajime Nakamura, Iwanami-Bunko)
However, prioritizing oneself does not mean selfishly pursuing enlightenment at the expense of others or pushing them aside.
Therefore, all the Buddhas teach that practitioners should diligently engage in their practice in accordance with the principles and teachings.
69 Without abandoning solitary meditation and concentration, always act in accordance with the principles and teachings in all matters, {reflecting on them,} knowing for certain the troubles inherent in all existence, and walking alone like the horn of a rhinoceros. (The Words of the Buddha: Sutta Nipata Chapter 1: The Chapter on the Snake Verse 3: The Horn of the Rhinoceros Translated by Hajime Nakamura, Iwanami-Bunko)
186 The teacher says, 'If a person worthy of respect believes in and diligently follows the principles that bring peace, is wise, and eagerly seeks to hear the teachings, they will eventually attain wisdom.' (The Words of the Buddha: Sutta Nipata Chapter 1: The Chapter on the Snake Verse 10: The Deity Named Aralaka, Translated by Hajime Nakamura, Iwanami-Bunko)
And those who understand the principles and walk the path accordingly are truly the practitioners who firmly uphold the purpose of Buddhist practice, while those who do not are merely worldly beings who seek to fulfill their desires without regard for means.
Regarding this, in the original Buddhist scriptures of Shakyamuni Buddha, we can find the following principles.
324 If one observes any precepts, engages in any conduct, or increases any actions, will they truly stand upright and attain the highest purpose?
325 Respect the superior/elders, and do not envy them. Recognize the appropriate timing to appear before various teachers, and understand the right time to listen to discussions about the Dharma. Listen attentively to what is well taught. (The Words of the Buddha: Sutta Nipata Chapter 2: The Chapter on the Small Section Verse 9: Whatever Precepts Translated by Hajime Nakamura, Iwanami-Bunko)
Here, "Listen attentively to what is well taught" implies ensuring not to miss the rare opportunity to hear the profound teachings of the Dharma.
After all, nothing is more crucial as a condition for achieving the purpose of Buddhist practice than the teachings of the Dharma.
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