何度も繰り返し
Over and over again
2024-09-08 18:00:00
Even an intelligent and devout Buddhist practitioner may experience a waning motivation to continue their practice or may develop doubts.
This is not unusual but rather something everyone experiences; it can be considered a normal occurrence.
This is because, for people (sentient beings), Nirvana, which is said to be attained through enlightenment, is an unknown realm, and truly understanding the single path to it—the Buddhist path—is by no means easy.
Therefore, even if one understands it intellectually, actually putting Buddhist practice into action is difficult for everyone.
For more on this, you may refer to the article written on September 28, 2023, if you are interested.
It is said that even if one diligently practices the Buddhist path, if it is not done correctly, not only will one fail to reach Nirvana, but there is also a danger that the practitioner may be led toward ruin.
For example, the following principle can be found in the early Buddhist scriptures of Shakyamuni Buddha:
311 Just as grasping grass incorrectly can cut the hand, practicing the path incorrectly can drag the practitioner down into hell.
312 If one's practice is sloppy, with undisciplined conduct, and even the so-called pure conduct is questionable, then no great results will come. (The Words of Truth, Dhammapada, Chapter 22: Hell, translated by Hajime Nakamura, Iwanami-Bunko).
So then, how can one practice the Buddhist path correctly?
Should someone else check whether we are practicing correctly?
It would be ideal if that were possible, but in reality, it is difficult. Even a living Tathagata cannot check whether another practitioner is walking the correct path.
In short, everything is a matter of personal responsibility. If you wish to practice the Buddhist path correctly, you must follow your own wisdom, and that wisdom must be accurate.
Of course, this doesn't mean you should do it without any guidance.
By regularly revisiting the Buddhist scriptures and treatises that exist in the world, and for those who can, by repeatedly examining the words and actions of a living Tathagata, or by engaging in good discussions with other virtuous practitioners, you can accumulate merit. This, in turn, will refine your wisdom and enable you to walk the correct path with confidence.
When engaging in these practices, a Buddhist practitioner need not hesitate.
There is no one who will obstruct you, and other virtuous practitioners and Tathagatas will respond warmly.
For example, in the original Buddhist scriptures of Shakyamuni Buddha, the following principle can be found:
316 If a person knows how to learn and understand from others, they should do so as the gods revere the god Indra (Śakra). When the learned (teacher) is respected , they will gladly reveal the truth to that person.
317 A thoughtful person understands this, listens attentively, and practices the teachings according to the Dharma. By associating with such a person and not neglecting these practices, one becomes wise, discerning, and intelligent." (Words of the Buddha, Sutta Nipata, Chapter 2: Minor Chapter 8: The Boat, translated by Hajime Nakamura, Iwanami-Bunko)
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