Special Topics
How Do Sutras Explain Mind?
Why did the Buddha bring us so many sutras and Dharma? Indeed, the Buddha wished that all sentient beings could cut off vexations and be free and liberated in any situation. The origin of vexations is mind. When our mind becomes calm and pure, we are in a state of enjoyment and ease. Realizing the intrinsic pureness of mind, we could be in a state eternal joy and ease. And all sentient beings possess this same quality of mind. Having the "same mind" doesn't mean that we share the same thoughts; rather, it means we share the intrinsic nature of mind, and vexations generated by sentient beings are identical. Inevitably, we encounter conflicts, contradictions, and obstacles in our living environment. If we view obstacles with a negative attitude, we willcertainly be trapped by these obstacles. Conversely, if we face them with a positive attitude or if we analyze and then handle them, we can better resolve the obstacles. The Buddha himself developed wisdom through obstacles and taught the ways to liberation
Harmony of Body and Mind
There is an old saying: "In karmic samsara, it is hard to attain the human body." Without our bodies, we are incapable of practicing. Thus, our cultivation must rely on the body, and we utilize our mind to train our bodies. Generally, people do not know how to utilize mind to train the body, or vice versa, resulting in endless vexations. Body and mind are not mutually exclusive, so we should strive to harmonize them so as to calm body and mind and thus reach the liberated mind, as expounded in the Heart Sutra.
This truth seems hard to grasp, but if we cultivate diligently, we will see that our mind is never apart from our body and environment. When we are dreaming, our mind is active, which makes us feel that dreams result only from mind. In fact, the people, events, sounds, and sensations in our dreams are reflections of what we have encountered in the environment. Thus, without the external environment, there would be neither the function of the mind, nor dreams.
Mind Without Obstructions
One who is enlightened to the true nature of emptiness is called one who is "without mind". This is what the Heart Sutra calls it:"there is no wisdom, and nothing to attain," and "mind without obstructions." "Mind without obstructions" means that one no longer clings to any phenomena, worldly or mentally. Therefore, there is no more vexation and suffering, and no need to attain wisdom. Everything remains the same but is no longer a source of affliction. One with such transcendence reaches the state of "no mind".
A "no-mind practitioner" is a truly enlightened person who obtains liberation.
Resource:
50 Questions About Reading Sutras (讀經50問), Dharma Drum Publishing Corporation