当初の望みを超えている
Exceeding the initial expectation
2024-04-08 18:00:00
Those who embark on the path of Buddhist practice with the aim of enlightenment (= liberation) likely have some sort of image of Nirvana, the state they aspire to, at that point.
And while the specific imagery may vary among practitioners, it is bound to be magnificent for each.
Now, when Buddhist practitioners actually attain enlightenment, they will come to realize that the Nirvana they have reached is different from what they initially imagined. Yet, it surpasses their expectations with its remarkable splendor and satisfaction, proving to be an unsurpassed state that they could not have imagined.
Therefore, one can find the following teachings in the original Buddhist scriptures of Shakyamuni, for example.
13 While following various desires, the mind finds no satisfaction. Yet, those who reflect on withdrawing from desires and observe cessation, finding contentment through clear wisdom, are truly satisfied.
14 Since satisfaction through desires is impossible, it is superior to find contentment through clear wisdom. Those content with clear wisdom cannot be dominated by attachment.
(Omitted)
19 Even if there were a mountain of gold as high as the Himalayas, it would not be enough to satisfy one person. Knowing this, one should act with a calm and contented heart. (Utterance of Inspiration, Udānavarga, translated by Hajime Nakamura, Iwanami-Bunko)
178 Better than being the sole ruler of the earth, better than being the sovereign ruler of the whole world, is the first step of the saint (sotāpanna: the one attained the stream-winner). (Words of Truth, Dhammapada, Chapter Thirteen, "The World," translated by Hajime Nakamura, Iwanami Bunko)
In essence, worldly wealth and power, even if acquired in abundance, cannot satisfy anyone, but the state of enlightenment brings satisfaction to all who achieve it.
At the same time, he will also come to know that Nirvana is the highest state attainable by humans.
Therefore, he doesn't feel the need to aspire to yet another state.
Thus, he will come to feel a sense of "having accomplished what needs to be done in this world."
Moreover, having completed what needs to be done in this world, he becomes convinced that Nirvana will not disappear afterwards.
This signifies the recognition of the completion of one's practice.
In essence, the practitioner comes to realize that the pursuit of enlightenment and its attainment are not reliant on memory.
In this manner, Buddhist practitioners come to understand that they have achieved aspirations beyond their initial hopes and already dwell in a tranquil state.
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