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Basic Buddhist Teachings 2 - Dependent Origination
Learning the Dharma correctly is to untangle misunderstandings and ignorance, helping the mind become lighter. If we learn only to accumulate knowledge, we will become burdened. Misconceptions and deadlocks create prejudices, causing us suffering. True teachings must help clear the mind “like the sun melts the snow,” not as theories but as methods of practice. When listening to a lecture or studying a sutra and feeling lighter, it is a sign that we have absorbed it.
True Dharma needs to ensure two elements: khế lý and khế cơ. Khế lý means being in accordance with the fundamental principles of the teachings such as impermanence and non-self. Khế cơ refers to being suitable for the circumstances and psychology of the listener. These two concepts embrace each other and cannot be separated. A good Dharma teacher must contemplate to clearly understand the disposition of the listener, grasp their cultural, religious context, and their sufferings, in order to share the teachings deeply and meaningfully. “Preaching the Dharma is not about displaying knowledge but bringing benefits to the listener.”
The Dharma talk also explains dependent origination (Pratitiya Samutpada) - the interconnection and interdependence of all things. This is the foundation to transcend the notions of space and time. “This is because that is” - a simple yet profound truth showing that everything relies on each other to exist. The image of “interbeing” (three reeds leaning on each other) illustrates this concept. The Buddha taught that whoever perceives dependent origination sees the Buddha. Tools like the two truths, the Four Siddhantas, and dependent origination help us delve deeply into the forest of teachings, identify and correct misunderstandings in the tradition.