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Worldly Roots, Path of Awakening – Master of Bamboo Forest
Beginning with the poem Dwelling in the World, Enjoying the Way by Trúc Lâm Đại Sĩ, with images of Zen harmonizing within the world:
– Though sitting in the city, one lives with the simplicity of the mountain forest; when myriad karmas settle down, the true nature is at ease, and for half a day, body and mind are free.
– When craving ceases, there is no longer any longing for pearls or precious jade; when right and wrong fall silent, one can hear the orioles sing and the swallows recite their verses.
– Many people admire blue rivers and green mountains, but how many truly recognize the pink peach blossoms or the green willows? The silver moon in the blue sky shines over the vast universe, and the soft willows and flourishing flowers bring joy to all beings under the sun of wisdom in the deep forest.
Next comes the compass for the path of practice:
- Freedom of mind (an unburdened heart) is the only Dharma door — “Once the heart is free, no other method is needed.”
- Preserve and kindle the bright nature to subdue wandering thoughts, cut off self and others, reveal the true diamond form, and realize the wondrous mind of perfect enlightenment.
- Pure Land is the pure heart right here and now; Amitabha is the radiant nature, there is no need to drift toward the Western Realm.
- Practice is simple: eating vegetables and fruits without minding bitterness or sourness, wearing paper or oak-bark robes without distinguishing between black or white; living with humanity and righteousness, treasuring three tiles more than a grand mansion, valuing half a hut more than the heavenly palace.
