We continued our ZOOM class discussion of “How to Realize Prajna” with a discussion of various obstructions to practice, group initiation and learning, karmic forces, holy and non-holy Dharma Protectors, and other matters related to the realization of prajna.
Is wanting to realize prajna helpful or just another obstruction?
In regards to karmic retribution from causality, the Buddha Master told us that “. . . it is a matter of the fruits of retribution coming into being in accord with one’s karma, the minds of living beings therefore turn following their karma. Living beings are unable to use their minds to reverse karmic forces. In addition, the obstructions resulting from karmic forces originate from avidya. Thus, when living beings want to realize prajna, this very want becomes an obstruction. . . . Such wanting immediately becomes an obstruction stemming from attachment.“
Does anyone in this world have the ability to enable you to instantly become liberated and thoroughly aware of your original nature?
We were told, no–because “this is something that you yourself must realize through cultivation, that you yourself must thoroughly awaken to. Only through cultivation, learning Dharma, and transforming karmic forces can you realize prajna, your intrinsic nature, liberation, and accomplishment.“
Are there profound & wondrous Dharma that you can learn to assist you in your realization and removal of obstacles?
Yes, but “. . . you can learn such Dharmas only if you have cultivated virtuous conduct . . . the yidam has approved you, . . ” and other criteria is met. The Buddha Master told us that “. . . anyone who sincerely learns from Buddha and sincerely cultivates oneself can learn good Buddha Dharma.“
How then could Huineng and other ancient masters suddenly awaken to their Buddha-nature?
“They were not ordinary people who were learning from Buddha in that particular lifetime. They not only became totally aware of their original nature, they would again return to their holy positions after their lives ended. That is because they came back to this world to fulfill their vows.” They were not like us, who still have hindrances and karma and thus must engage in self-cultivation. The principle is that we “. . . can learn Dharma and become accomplished only by relying on cultivation.“
Do you still want good causes since they will also create karmic forces that will obstruct the path of Karma?
“The reason is that only if you have good causes will Buddhas and Bodhisattvas direct Their light upon you. That is also called empowerment. Why is that the case? Only if you have good causes will special Dharma-protecting Bodhisattvas and Dharma-protecting holy and non-holy beings help you out in what you do.” We receive empowerment from the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas and protection from the various Dharma Protectors.
Why and how should you beseech Dharma Protectors and Dharma-protecting deities to protect you?
The Buddha Master explained that “the protection provided by Dharma protectors is very important. From now on, all of you disciples should beseech Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, Dharma-protecting holy and non-holy beings, and Dharma protectors. All of you should make offerings to them and should practice Dharmas specifically related to them so that they will protect you. . . We practice Dharmas specifically related to them so as to carry out Buddhist undertakings, do good deeds, and contribute all of our abilities to living beings.“
Next:
We will continue DCB26 with a discussion on Dharma practice and how to realize prajna at our May 4, 2024 ZOOM session starting at 9:00 am. We will consider the steps to follow in cultivation, impermanence, miracles, qigong, forbearance, and more.
The recording of the April 27 DCB26 class is now available. You must be enrolled in DCB26 in one of the membership programs at the LFBCS to access the course materials, questions covered (in parenthesis), and/or the class recordings. Please note that these links will only work if you are logged into LFBCS with your membership identification number AND are enrolled in this class.
DCB26-Expounding the Absolute Truth through the Heart Sutra: “How to Realize Prajna”
April 27, 2024: Lesson 36.2-H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III Imparts Buddha Dharma-Causality and the Rules and Methods of Continual Practice, Expounding the Absolute Truth through the Text of the Heart Sutra-How to Realize Prajna, (18-46) and (HERE) for recording of class.
April 20, 2024: Lesson 36.1-H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III Imparts Buddha Dharma-Causality and the Rules and Methods of Continual Practice, Expounding the Absolute Truth through the Text of the Heart Sutra-How to Realize Prajna, (1-17) and (HERE) for recording of class.
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