Page 190 - Popular Deities of Chinese Buddhism (Illustrated) and Symbols

he ays of ractice

1. For those who seek Enlightenment there are three ways of

practice that must be understood and followed. First, disciplines

for practical behaviour; second, right concentration; and third,

wisdom.

What are the disciplines? Every man, whether he is a commoner

or way-seeker, should follow the precepts for good behaviour.

He should control both his mind and body and guard the gates

of his five senses. He should be afraid of even a trifling evil and,

from moment to moment, should endeavour to practise good

deeds.

What is meant by the concentration of the mind? It means to get

quickly away from greedy and evil desires as they arise and to

hold the mind pure and tranquil.

What then is wisdom? It is the wisdom to perfectly understand

and to patiently accept the Four Noble Truths — to know the

fact of suffering and its nature; to know the source of suffering;

to know what constitutes the end of suffering; and to know the

Noble Path that leads to the end of suffering.

ose who earnestly follow these three ways of practice may

rightly be called the disciples of the Buddha.

2. It is difficult to advance along the path that leads to En-

lightenment so long as one is covetous of comfort and luxuries

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