Q&A (2021/08/22)
1. In the book The Way to Buddhahood, on the second line of the verse 136, "The provision necessary for the attainment of blessing and wisdom", what is "attainment of blessing"? Can you explain the division between blessing and wisdom?
~> “Provision” is translated from “資糧 (zhi-liang)”, which refers to raw materials or nourishment, something very important and necessary to attain blessing and wisdom.
~> Other translations for “Blessing” are merit and virtue, an excellent reward from our good karma.
~> Hence, to attain blessing (merit/virtue), the vital resource is “Diligence”; in the same way, the achievement of supreme wisdom is also inseparable from "diligence".
~> Why is the attainment of blessing and wisdom so important?
~> For those who are blessed, apart from worrying about their dwelling place, food and clothing, they can often meet good people and do things smoothly.
~> Not to mention wisdom. In dealing with people and difficult situations, if we have wisdom, we will definitely be more fearless, and react to the situation wisely and calmly.
2. From the second paragraph, "approaching and paying homage to all buddhas, learning and practicing all dharmas, ..." Since the Buddha's teaching is so deep and vast, and the Buddha presents his teaching in different ways to different people based on their capacity for understanding, is it necessary to learn and practice all of the Buddha's teachings, or should we focus on the teachings that best match our ability?
~> Definitely agree with your point of view that “focus on the teaching that best matches our ability”.
~> Diligence, the study of this subject, not only allows us to understand the vastness of the Dharma, but more importantly, it reminds us to maintain a magnanimous mind.
~> With this bountiful mind, we accept the endless learning with humility, and at the same time never casually despise or deny others (or other teachings) with arrogance and rudeness.
~> In this way, the value of diligence is naturally revealed.
