かけ離れた修行
Training that is far removed from Buddhist training
2024-05-19 18:00:00
Buddhist training basically takes the form of itinerant practice.
For this reason, Buddhist practitioners often engage in various practices that they hear about or recall, then stop, only to repeat this process with different practices.
In this context, is it possible for a practice that seems, at first glance, far removed from Buddhist training to be considered a legitimate part of Buddhist training?
In that case, what conditions must be met for a practice to be considered legitimate Buddhist training?
This is a delicate question, but if pressed for an answer, it would be as follows:
"If it pertains to matters of language, it can be considered legitimate Buddhist training."
This can be said because all important opportunities for Buddhist training arise from language.
Performing virtuous deeds, accumulating merit, engaging in possible reflections, and practicing contemplation (SHIKAN).
These should be carried out with words (including sacred silence), and the decisive opportunities for enlightenment, "phrases of the Dharma," also appear in the world in the form of words.
Conversely, it is safe to assume that actions carried out without words or sensory practices without the intervention of words do not constitute Buddhist training.
Similarly, the pursuit of mystical experiences or ascetic practices like austerities cannot be considered Buddhist training.
These are like dead ends in the path of practice, and Buddhist practitioners should avoid them.
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