釋四願 TY Second Vow

Buddha Ji delves into the core principles of self-cultivation and the diverse paths within Buddhism, particularly contrasting the Greater Vehicle (大乘, Dàchéng) and the Lesser Vehicle (小乘, Xiǎochéng) within the context of Zen Buddhism. Self-Cultivation and Identity. Before embarking on the path of self-cultivation, individuals may not have felt the need to scrutinize their behaviours and character. However, once they commit to this journey, they must recognize their new identity as cultivators on the Way (道). This transformation necessitates daily introspection and discipline, becoming integral to their spiritual practice. The first and second vows are interconnected, with the latter emphasizing the aspiration to attain the Greater Vehicle (大乘). The Greater and Lesser Vehicles. The Greater Vehicle is often likened to a large cart capable of carrying many people, while the Lesser Vehicle is compared to a smaller cart that can only transport a few. This metaphor reflects the varying levels of wisdom and aspiration among practitioners.In Zen teachings, this concept is often referred to as the “Superior Vehicle” (上乘), which transcends both the Greater and Lesser Vehicles in terms of merit and spiritual accomplishment. The Zen tradition traces its origins back to the Sixth Patriarch, Huineng (慧能), who played a pivotal role in its development. The Path of Bodhisattvas. The attainment of spiritual merit requires a harmonious balance of internal practices (內功) and external actions (外行). Internal practices encompass meditation, recitation, and personal cultivation, while external actions involve acts of compassion and righteousness. It is important to note that achieving enlightenment is not a straightforward endeavour, as exemplified by historical figures who attained enlightenment through the rigorous practice of the “Six Perfections” (六度) or “Six Paramitas” (六波罗密), essential for progressing on the Bodhisattva path. These Six Perfections correspond to the concept of “crossing to the other shore” (渡彼岸), which signifies transitioning from suffering to enlightenment. This journey is central to Buddhist practice and encapsulates not only the goal of personal salvation but also the aspiration to aid all sentient beings in their quest for enlightenment. The concept of “六度” (Six Perfections) or “Six Paramitas” (六波罗密) in Buddhism is a framework for spiritual practice, particularly emphasized in Mahayana Buddhism. Each of the six perfections—generosity (布施), moral discipline (持戒), patience (忍辱), diligence (精進), meditation (禪定), and wisdom (智慧)—serves as a guideline for developing one’s character and aiding others on the path to enlightenment. Below is a detailed exploration of each perfection.