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The Two Greatest Temptations in Buddhism
*The Buddha was not saddened by being misunderstood; the important thing is how to help others see clearly through small experiences, not letting unpleasant things (“a rock”) make us pessimistic. There are two kinds of Buddhism: the path of insight—recognizing the Buddha nature already present in our own mind—and the path of devotion—arousing faith in sacred objects outside ourselves. The Four Recollections—recollection of the Buddha, the Dharma, the Sangha, and the precepts—are themes of refuge that help reduce suffering and bring about inner freedom. We can practice either through insight (watering wholesome seeds) or through devotion (placing our faith in external objects).
*The Buddha did not disappear after passing into nirvana, because he is the Dharma body (Dharmakāya)—the living, indestructible principle, like a cloud transforming into rain, snow, or a river. We can establish a “living Buddha” through wholesome speech, thoughts, and compassionate actions. There are many Buddhas and Bodhisattvas present around us, for example:
- Aksobhya – the Unshakable Buddha
- Amitabha – Infinite Light
- Amitayus – Infinite Life
- Medicine Buddha – the one who heals life
- Avalokiteshvara
- Samantabhadra
- Kṣitigarbha
-
Mañjuśrī
When we understand this, we will realize that the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas are accompanying us with every breath, every sight, and every act of mindfulness.