To earnestly perceive the grace and vows of Medicine Buddha 2
Compiled according to the teachings of the Master
Author: Fafu
Indeed, in these degenerate times, sentient beings lack genuine faith and correct views. The Buddha foresaw this and taught the Dharma in a way that was suitable for the beings of the Dharma-ending Age. During that time, there was still a remnant of pure faith and correct understanding, and people would not doubt themselves or the Buddha. Beyond this pure faith and correct understanding, let us consider what the Medicine Buddha Sutra itself states. It says that the vows and virtues of the Buddhas are difficult to comprehend, and not everyone can fully grasp them. Even bodhisattvas of the lower realms may find it challenging to comprehend. How much more difficult is it for us, with our limited understanding? However, if we cultivate trust in the Buddha and in the inconceivable power of their vows and virtues, we can elevate our own faith.
As the scriptures clearly state, even bodhisattvas of higher realms may find it difficult to fully comprehend the inconceivable power of the Buddhas. It is because these powers are so extraordinary and seemingly impossible. However, if one cultivates genuine faith and correct understanding, it is entirely possible to experience these benefits. For example, a person born blind has a physical impairment that cannot be naturally healed. Yet, there are historical accounts of individuals, such as those who encountered the Buddha, regaining their sight. This is not unique to Buddhism; similar miracles are attributed to Jesus in Christianity. However, it is important to understand that not all blind people will be healed. This depends on various conditions, such as one’s faith, understanding, and the specific karmic conditions involved.
To truly receive these blessings, one must first understand the meaning of “receiving” in Buddhism. In Buddhism, “receiving” is synonymous with “faith.” When you have faith, you are capable of receiving. Without faith, you have no hands to grasp the offering, and thus you cannot receive it. Not only can you not receive it, but you cannot hold onto it either. However, even if you do not have the capacity to fully grasp the great gift offered by the Buddha, you can still appreciate it. Since you have eyes, you can still see the gift, which in this case is the Dharma. You can still experience it by studying and reflecting upon the teachings.
As we discussed yesterday, the Buddha constantly emits a radiant light, carrying His compassionate vows. This light permeates all times and spaces, illuminating everything and everyone. It is abundantly present within you as well. Therefore, you should fully experience this radiance within yourself and allow the Buddha’s compassionate power to manifest through you.
Although your mind may wander and disrupt your focus, even a moment of awareness is significant. If you can cultivate the concentration to remain immersed in this state, you can gradually actualize all twelve of the Buddha’s vows within yourself. However, before this can happen, a purification process is necessary. This purification involves clearing away the three obstacles: afflictive obstacles, karmic obstacles, and obstacles of the realm. While the scriptures may not explicitly mention “clearing away the three obstacles” or “formatting,” they do provide the necessary guidance for us to understand this process.
For instance, we previously mentioned the case of a blind person regaining their sight. This blindness is a result of past actions, falling under the category of karmic obstacles. Similarly, various physical ailments are also classified as karmic obstacles. The Buddha’s vow has the power to eradicate these obstacles, enabling you to cultivate correct views. By eliminating afflictive obstacles, the Buddha implants correct views within you. The root of all afflictions is ignorance, a fundamental misunderstanding of reality. Due to ignorance, one develops various attachments, leading to pride, arrogance, and doubt. When these attachments are not fulfilled, anger arises. Ultimately, all these afflictions stem from incorrect views. The Buddha’s compassion aims to purify these incorrect views.
As for karmic obstacles, consider the beings in hell. They are incapable of performing any positive actions due to the severe consequences of their past actions. They are trapped in endless suffering, unable to even generate a single thought to improve their situation. This is what is meant by karmic obstacles. One is unable to create any new karma, good or bad, as there is no time or opportunity.
