Awakened One 3

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Ignorance

Author: Fafu

Ignorance, one of the afflictions, inevitably gives rise to the eight kinds of suffering, though one remains unaware of this fact.

For instance, due to folly, one may engage in senseless actions, firmly believing in their own righteousness. Like Yanruodaduo, consumed by delusions of grandeur, they become entangled in a web of greed, hatred, pride, and doubt, constantly stirring these afflictions until they are beyond control. In this way, they fall into the abyss of madness and are unable to extricate themselves from various difficulties. An awakened and wise person, however, realizes that enlightenment is to be found in the present moment and diligently guards their consciousness.

For instance, due to ignorance, one may engage in harmful actions, driven by short-sightedness and a desperate desire for immediate gains. In their haste, they may resort to desperate measures, creating countless hidden dangers. An awakened and wise person, however, follows the teachings of the Buddha and acts in accordance with the Dharma and the law.

For instance,due to ignorance, one may become overly attached to others, offering excessive protection and indulgence. Such actions ultimately weaken others and bring harm to oneself. An awakened and wise person neither indulges themselves nor indulges others.

For instance,due to ignorance, one may become obstinate, rigidly adhering to their own views and refusing to adapt. An awakened and wise person, on the other hand, is adaptable and as gentle and yielding as water.

For instance, due to ignorance, one may become arrogant, filled with pride and a sense of superiority. An awakened and wise person, however, is humble and eager to learn.

For instance, due to ignorance, one may become entangled in senseless disputes, viewing the world through colored lenses and seeking to define everything in terms of “right” and “wrong.” This can lead to heated arguments and even violence, all for naught, like grasping at empty flowers or trying to harvest fruits from the void. An awakened and wise person, however, sees all conditioned phenomena as illusory, like dreams, bubbles, or mirages. They adapt to all beings and skillfully navigate the course of life.

For instance, due to ignorance, one may seek pleasure but find pain, desire good but encounter evil, and strive for gain but suffer loss. An awakened and wise person, on the other hand, abides by the law of cause and effect and freely designs their life.

For instance, due to ignorance, one may underestimate oneself, unaware of their inherent potential and virtues. They may toil tirelessly for trivial gains. An awakened and wise person, on the other hand, turns inward to discover their true nature and abides in the state of constant joy and purity.

Reflecting on this, we may ask: Is the suffering arising from each type of ignorance inevitable?

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