Dear Buddhist practitioners,
We are glad that many of you have benefited from the Part 1 of this series:
From Baby Boomers to Generation Zoom: Things that Buddhist Practitioners Need to Know
We are excited to bring to you a continuation of the series today.
Whether you are a young adult or someone of an advanced age, this pack of discourses will provide answers to some of the most important concerns you may have such as the likes of:
- Why can’t I even hold a simple conversation with my children? In fact, it is hard to have one without ending in a fight nowadays. What went wrong?
- If you are someone above 60, what does ‘enjoying a life of ease and comfort’ (享清福) mean to you? How much money and property must you own to live such a life?
- What does being respected mean to you? Is it a surefire sign that you are exceptionally outstanding in your achievement or morality? What if we tell you, that MAY NOT be the case?
……..and some practical solutions to some day-to-day life questions:
- Why is it hard to wake up in the morning and how can you train yourself to do so?
- The all-too-familiar inclination to nod off every time you start to perform recitation. Are you suffering from one? Why?
- What are the negative effects of poor communication? Perhaps we can learn from the lion and tiger in this pack?
We invite you to explore more interesting topics this week!
< FOR 49 YEARS, THE BUDDHA USED EXPEDIENT MEANS TO SPREAD THE DHARMA, TEACHING THE ‘BLINDED’ MASSES TO OBSERVE THE TRUTH OF THE UNIVERSE >
Master Jun Hong Lu: We can draw parallels between Shakyamuni Buddha observing the universe and a person with normal vision observing an elephant, while the approach taken by the science field is analogous to “a group of blind feeling an elephant” (mistaking the parts for the whole).
The realm of science is by no means capable of bringing out and portraying the fullness and the true nature of an elephant. This explains why the Buddha teaches us to ‘seek an understanding of the true nature of things and worry not about the inconsequential details’.
For some 49 years, the Buddha propagated the dharma using expedient means. He was both forthright and ingenious at applying a myriad of wondrous oratory methods in delivering His teachings. Technical aspects like the lengths of the elephant’s nose and tail were not what He wanted us to know. They are just a figure of speech to prompt the ‘blinded’ ones like us to open our eyes to see this world.
Some 2,500 years ago, the Buddha already saw planet earth and painted it as a round-shaped Amalaka fruit and this fact was only validated by scientists two millennia later.
He also revealed that there are eighty four thousand lives that take the form of microorganisms in a bowl of water. Thanks to the invention of the microscope because without which, humanity would not have known what bacteria are till this very day!
Scientific laws are formulated in a specific time and space. While Buddhist practitioners should be sensible of the existence of a specific order of the universe, they should also understand that as humans, we can make use of our own mind to design the life we want.
Be diligent and steadfast in your practice. If you do so, you will surely attain Buddhahood in the human realm, and be assured of returning to the embrace of the Buddha in heaven.
Source: Master Jun Hong Lu’s World Buddhist Fellowship Meeting, Singapore, 23 April 2016
MASTER LU’S WORDS OF ADVICE FOR YOUNG BUDDHIST PRACTITIONERS
Caller: An old grandpa once mentioned that he dreamed of the enormous dharma vessel of Guan Yin Citta and many young people were on board. Can Master offer some advice to the Generation-Y and Generation-Z?
Master Jun Hong Lu: What sort of advice in particular?
Caller: Perhaps, some advice on life and marriage.
Master Jun Hong Lu: In this case, there is a lot to say. No matter which generation you are from, be it millennials, Gen-Y or Gen-Z, do not be thick-skinned. Let me tell you this, first and foremost, you must live by your conscience. With that, you would be one step closer to your inherent qualities. Conscience comes naturally to those who practise Buddhism. By staying rooted to your conscience, you will not be greedy and your deeds are based on conscientious grounds. This being said, when there is greed, conscience is killed.
Secondly, it is true that young people can be enlightened easily (容易觉悟). However, it’s also true that they are prone to losing this state of enlightenment as well. On the other hand, older practitioners are more stubborn and tend to be fixated on their view of self (执著我见). Hence, it is tougher for them to cultivate spiritually. That said, once they set foot on the path of cultivation, older practitioners will not waver easily. These are the strengths and weaknesses of these two groups of people.
In this Age of Dharma Decline, many young people are celestial beings from the heavenly realm. Some may even be Bodhisattvas who have descended to the human realm to propagate Buddhism. There are also many of those with predestined affinity, to be born in the Age of Dharma Decline, a time for them to attain a certain level of spiritual achievement. This explains why they can chance upon Buddhism and it is easier for youngsters to do well in this path of spiritual cultivation.
I hope they understand this and will never forget about their mission for descending to this realm. If they fail in their spiritual endeavour to attain Buddhahood in this or next lifetime, it will be a pity as they may not have another chance to do so. The reason being, in this Age of Dharma Decline, interpersonal relationships, desires and human self-centredness have reached their peak.
This is to say humans are so self-centred that they can’t even tolerate their own children, parents or spouse whom they share a bed with every night. Practically, they can never put up with anyone, except if it is for money. Human mindset has completely changed. If you do not practise Buddhism in this Era of Dharma Decline, it would be very difficult to attain proper enlightenment.
During this period, you may plunge into the infernal pit of desires. You may end up reincarnated as a pig, a dog or even a cow and you will drift further and further away from the human form.
This is because mankind is becoming more animalistic. People only care about their own interests, and will do whatever it takes to harm others, in order to attain their goals. This is why all of you should avoid being reincarnated as a human. Once you are in this realm, it is harder to return to where you originally came from. Do you understand?
Caller: I do. Thank you Master, for the advice.
Source: Shuohua20141107 19:24, Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program
BEING SINGLE-MINDED IN THE DHARMA METHOD OF CHOICE IS OF THE UTMOST IMPORTANCE
Master Jun Hong Lu: In learning Buddhism, those in their youth should listen and study more while their memories are still sharp. As you approach middle age, this is the time when you have to decide on your objective in life. This is akin to a young student who eventually progresses to high school. At this stage, you need to make up your mind on the dharma method of choice, dedicate yourself and practise it single-mindedly (要一门精进). In addition, you need to find a good mentor and make a decision on the dharma method that you will practise for life.
You may have noticed, those who make mid-career switches, be it work or business, will never be as proficient as those who have been in the trade for a long time. This is because a person can produce outstanding achievements in any task, when he puts in enough diligence (行行出状元), and every profession has its own tricks for success (每一行都有诀窍). This also explains why it is very difficult to acquire the skills of others because experience is built over a long period of time.
When you are still young, you should learn actively and listen more. When you reach middle age, be single-minded in your practice. Finally, when you are in your twilight years, do not think of anything else except your aim to be reborn in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss (求生往生). You should tell yourself, “Since I have set my mind on practising Buddhism and cultivating my mind, I shouldn’t be thinking of anything else. I am already so old, what else is there to think about? In fact, I shouldn’t be confused by the various dharma methods available because my mind is set on the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. I have to truly learn to let go of my ego”.
We ought to understand this – if you insist on practising every single dharma method, if you are always trying out and pursuing new things or you think that you are still very healthy and can still earn a lot of money, etc., ultimately, you will not accomplish anything in your cultivation and you will soon realise you have spent your whole life achieving nothing.
This is precisely what I spoke about at the start of today’s session: ‘One who practises multiple dharma methods is bound to fail (修行多法则丧生)’. This is because your life will be done (生命没有了) as time is not on your side. Do you understand?
Source: Master Jun Hong Lu’s Buddhism In Plain Terms, Volume 7 Chapter 35
< Bad Habits to be Aware Of >
< BUDDHIST PRACTITIONERS MUST WATCH THEIR TONE WHEN SPEAKING TO OTHERS >
Caller: I have another question. I have increased my daily recitation to 49 times for all sutras/mantras. However, I still feel somewhat incompatible with everybody around me (格格不入). I have tried to share the Buddhist teachings with my husband and my family members but they are unconvinced. Our state of mind seems very different, so it is difficult for us to communicate. Thus, I try to avoid talking to them. This makes them feel that I am arrogant and aloof. I don’t know how to address this issue.
Sometimes, when I tell them about feng shui, if they find it beneficial, they will take my advice. However, when I asked them to perform recitation it seemed to fall on deaf ears.
Master Jun Hong Lu: If you speak to them in the same tone as you are speaking now, nobody will want to listen to you no matter how eloquent you are. Just think about how bad you sound now.
Caller: I see.
Master Jun Hong Lu: Some people speak the truth while others are hypocritical and deceptive. Even an untrue statement needs to be spoken with much consideration for example in terms of its intonation. There are times I speak in a stern manner, why is it still well received by many? It is because people can tell that I am speaking the truth! As for you, did you know that you speak with a reprimanding tone? From the few minutes you spoke with me just now, you very much sounded like a government official.
Caller: I will work on it.
Master Jun Hong Lu: You must change the way you speak.
Caller: Yes I will.
Master Jun Hong Lu: Be humble. Understand that the closer someone is to us, the stronger the negative affinities. That explains why they refuse to listen to you. Even if you are talking sense or speaking the truth, they will still choose to ignore you.
Caller: Yes Master, I will accept your reprimand.
Master Jun Hong Lu: Reprimand? See, you think that I am reprimanding you. I am actually educating you.
Caller: Yes, educating me. Sorry Master.
Master Jun Hong Lu: You must not think too highly of yourself. If you think Buddhism cannot be a common topic with your family, find other common topics in your daily life. For example, ask them, “What did you eat today?” or “Have you done your laundry?”. Alternatively, you can say things like, “Be careful, it is getting colder these few days. Please keep yourself warm by putting on more layers of clothes, and etc”. Can’t you talk to them like this?
Just because you are practising Buddhism, you think you should avoid talking to your family members about laundry, cooking and groceries? Is this what Buddhist practice is to you?
Caller: Sometimes I would rather stay at home and perform recitation.
Master Jun Hong Lu: If that is the case, you are more suited to live in a monastery. Shave bald and sit there to perform recitations. Then you can ignore everyone.
Caller: I see.
Master Jun Hong Lu: You have so many shortcomings! You must get them fixed, your secular mindset and the countless flaws in you!
Source: Wenda20130104 01:08:27, Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program
QUESTION PERTAINING TO CHANGING OF OIL LAMP WICK WHILE THE INCENSE ON THE BUDDHIST ALTAR IS STILL LIT AND, HOW BEING LONG-WINDED AND CONSTANTLY REPEATING ONESELF IS A SYMPTOM OF DEPRESSION
Caller: When the incense on the Buddhist altar is still lit, is it alright if we pull up the oil lamp wick with tweezers?
Master Jun Hong Lu: You must first seek forgiveness from the Bodhisattvas, “I’m sorry, Guan Yin Bodhisattva, as the lampwick is a little small, I will now pull it up a bit. May Guan Yin Bodhisattva and Dharma Protectors, please forgive me”. This will suffice.
Caller: The reason I ask is because I once heard Master cautioning against moving anything on the Buddhist altar, especially the oil lamp, while the incense is still burning. I have always thought that…
Master Jun Hong Lu: Do you understand now?
Caller: Yes, I do.
Master Jun Hong Lu: If you do, why do you still rattle away?
Caller: I’m sorry, Master.
Master Jun Hong Lu: You are not even that old yet, I can imagine your long-windedness when you get older. Why is there a communication gap between many elderlies and the young ones nowadays? It is because the former keeps rattling away the same thing. Kids nowadays are so smart and perceptive. You need only to speak one word and they get what you mean right away.
In a way, this is also a form of wisdom. The onset of depression is marked by an incessant repetition of one’s innermost thoughts. The person goes on and on about the same thing over and over which, in the end, leads to an episode of depression.
Caller: I’m sorry, I was wrong.
Source: Wenda20190419 07:12, Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program
HOW DO YOUNGSTERS OVERCOME DIFFICULTIES OF WAKING UP EARLY?
Caller: Master, how do young people overcome the difficulties in waking up early?
Master Jun Hong Lu: Firstly, if it is during the winter, bring down your body temperature as people tend to wake up easily when it gets cold. Secondly, start talking. The moment you talk you will feel awake instantly. Otherwise, you will continue to feel sluggish. Thirdly, move your limbs. Start moving your hands and legs even when you are still in bed.
Caller: Are there any Buddhist scriptures that we can recite to resolve this issue?
Master Jun Hong Lu: There is no need to. You just need to get yourself moving. Once you start moving, your thoughts and spirits will be lifted. On the contrary, lying in bed will only make you feel even more sleepy.
Caller: That’s true.
Master Jun Hong Lu: At times, you need to talk because the moment you talk to someone, you will feel energised instantly. For example, you are feeling extremely sleepy and you receive a call, and you go, “Hi….yes? What? No! You can’t do that!” Can you see from here that you are energised instantaneously? Do you think you can still fall asleep after the call?
Caller: I doubt so.
Source: Wenda20180817 59:08, Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program_
WHY DO WE KEEP FALLING ASLEEP DURING RECITATION?
Caller: Hi! I’m a caller from Malaysia. Is there any reason why I tend to fall asleep when performing recitation?
Master Jun Hong Lu: Well, take a rest before resuming your recitation.
Caller: Master, I feel like falling asleep whenever I begin my recitation.
Master Jun Hong Lu: Falling asleep when performing recitation simply means that you can’t calm your mind most of the time. Hence, you will feel the urge to doze off once a sense of tranquillity sets in when performing recitation. When your mind is calm, you feel like nodding off because you are totally relaxed. This relaxation is what recitation provides. Do you understand?
Caller: I understand.
Source: Wenda20141228A 49:06, Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program
OVERINDULGENCE IN FOOD AND SLEEP WILL LEAD TO INCREASED IGNORANCE AND LUST
Caller: Master, I am ashamed of myself for not being diligent in my cultivation of late. Not only do I have difficulty correcting my shortcomings, my heart is filled with anger and hatred. At the same time, I could not get through your phone and talk to you. Bodhisattva is compassionate and has helped me get through today. I would like to repent to you, Master.
Master Jun Hong Lu: Eat less spicy food, understand?
Caller: Yes. I overindulge in food and sleep.
Master Jun Hong Lu: Overindulgence in food and sleep will lead to increased ignorance and lust.
Caller: Yes, I understand.
Master Jun Hong Lu: Sometimes, you just have to grit your teeth and force yourself to get rid of the bad habits. You are a Bodhisattva hence you should strive to be like one. You are a human being, not an animal, don’t you understand?
Caller: I do, Master. I’m sorry for being so lacking in my cultivation. Please forgive me.
Master Jun Hong Lu: Alright! Please perform your recitation diligently. Bodhisattva has two children – one has never made any mistakes, and the other will correct his mistakes promptly. Do you understand what I mean?
Caller: Yes, Master. You work so hard for us, and yet, here I am keep giving you problems. I dreamed of you this morning. In the dream, you were teaching us Buddhism in Plain Terms.
Master Jun Hong Lu: Alright, work hard and learn from your Master.
Caller: Thank you, Master Lu.
Source: Wenda20171215 01:25:32, Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program
BUDDHISTS ARE CONSTANTLY SURROUNDED BY DHARMA PROTECTORS; HOW DO DHARMA PROTECTORS WARN CULTIVATORS WHO HAVE ERRED?
Caller: Master, is it true that Buddhist practitioners who recite Buddhist scriptures are surrounded by Dharma Protectors?
Master Jun Hong Lu: Yes, it is true.
Caller: Do Dharma Protectors who come to our aid differ depending on the type of vows that the Buddhist practitioner made?
Master Jun Hong Lu: Yes, that’s right.
Caller: Are Dharma Protectors present all the time, or does it depend on the time of the day?
Master Jun Hong Lu: They are always watching over you.
Caller: When one commits wrongdoings, how do Dharma Protectors typically remind or punish a Buddhist practitioner in this case?
Master Jun Hong Lu: Let me ask you, when you commit a wrongdoing, would you have a sense of guilt?
Caller: Yes, I would.
Master Jun Hong Lu: When you hurt others and you feel that you should not have done it, would you feel a twinge of guilt?
Caller: Yes, I would.
Master Jun Hong Lu: Who do you think induces this feeling of guilt in you? Do you know?
Caller: Dharma Protectors?
Master Jun Hong Lu: That is correct.
Source: Wenda20190728 39:03, Master Jun Hong Lu’s call-in radio program
< Don’t assume that others respect you because you’re outstanding. In fact, they respect you because they are outstanding >
Master Jun Hong Lu: Once, a President took his grandson out for a walk when they came across a beggar. The latter respectfully bowed to the President. Unexpectedly, the President stopped in his tracks and reciprocated with a deep and long bow. Puzzled by what he saw, the grandson asked, “But Grandpa, he is just a beggar”.
The President replied, “My child, I would never sit back and let a beggar be more polite than the President”.
As Buddhist Practitioners, we should never assume that others respect us because we are outstanding. In fact, they respect you because they are outstanding. Being respectful of others is what a noble person will do. Therefore, being polite and respectful is a reflection of one’s state of mind and spiritual cultivation. Unfortunately, modern society does not place much emphasis on mannerism, nor the importance of developing good moral character
It is not a sign of weakness for Buddhist practitioners to show good mannerism and high moral standing. As a matter of fact, it is a reflection of virtue, honesty and kindness which form the benevolence inherent in a Buddhist practitioner. It takes strength to stay humble and keep a low profile (学会低调是一种能力). In this world, it takes confidence to make a statement (抬头需要底气), but it takes courage to take the backseat in silence (低头需要勇气).
We may need to broaden our field of vision to take up the many things in life, but to detach ourselves from these many things, we need to have a heightened state of mind.
Life is to be respected,
Kindness is to be defended,
Be responsible for the things that you cherish.
To accomplish any task requires perseverance,
To live as a human requires morality.
It takes good affinities for us to survive,
It takes kind deeds for us to live.
and last but not least, it takes wisdom for us to practise Buddhism.
Source: Master Jun Hong Lu’s Discourse to Disciples, Auckland, New Zealand, 9 November 2019
< Story of a lion and a tiger – Lack of communication opens the door to misinterpretation >
Master Jun Hong Lu: I am going to tell all of you a fable that tells us that there is actually nothing wrong in this world, but it is through the human mind that harm is caused to society, others and oneself.
Once, there lived a lion and a tiger. Each of them had staked out a territorial claim over the mountain top. One day, a vicious clash between them broke out and nothing could break them up. The battle ended up in a lose-lose situation leaving the lion motionless, while the tiger was severely wounded.
As the lion was about to draw its last breath, facing the tiger which was lying similarly motionless beside, it burst out, “If it weren’t for your insistence of taking my territory, we wouldn’t have ended up like this”.
Startled, the tiger shot back, “It had never crossed my mind to snatch your territory. In fact, I had all along thought that you were the one who wanted to invade mine”.
This story tells us that communication is of paramount importance as misunderstanding may result in individuals inflicting mutual harm on each other. Hence, we must always maintain a good relationship with others, including our superiors at work.
We must learn to communicate more,
trust and respect each other,
be empathetic, and last but not least,
we must learn to be happy.
These are the five fundamentals of a good person.
Do not suppress yourself. Communicate more with others so that your colleagues, co-workers, friends and relatives can understand you and this will help avoid those unnecessary misunderstandings and conflicts.
I hope each and everyone of you will learn Buddhism diligently and have a deeper appreciation of these principles.
Source: Master Jun Hong Lu’s Buddhism In Plain Terms, Episode 20, 21 March 2020
< ENJOY A LIFE OF EASE AND COMFORT >
< Buddhism in Plain Terms < 白话佛法共修分享