The True Meaning of a “Dharma Assembly”
Because of the adornment
of concentration, the mind abides in a single object, adhering to the pure
thought of mindfulness of the Buddha and thereby no longer giving rise to
afflictions or pandering to delusional thoughts. One can then be single-minded,
entering into contemplation through the scriptural passages during Dharma assemblies—a
practice known as “contemplation in accordance with the text.” When one contemplates
and reflects on the Buddhist doctrine within the scriptural passages and then comprehends
and realizes the correct principles expounded in the scriptures, the wisdom of
the Buddha Dharma begins to arise. This is the principle of the union of
tranquility and insight and the realization of wisdom through concentration, which
everyone has heard of.
When participating in repentance
Dharma assemblies with a heart that retains the pure mindfulness of the Buddha,
one is also able to repent with the utmost sincerity and deep earnestness,
thereby eliminating transgressions and achieving the supreme meritorious
qualities of the wholesome repentance practice. At the same time, during such assemblies,
because the mind is pure and afflictive emotions no longer manifest, the
precepts one upholds become purer and more dignified. Thus, participating in the
sacred chanting during disaster-averting and repentance Dharma assemblies in
accordance with the doctrines likewise brings about the benefits of the Buddha
Dharma, enabling one to enhance one’s meritorious qualities in the three
uncontaminated studies of “precepts, concentration, and wisdom.” Naturally, by
relying on this “supporting Dharma” as a condition, one can further cultivate
the causes and conditions for the actual realization of the “Dharma” and the Three-Vehicle
Bodhi.
Therefore, for novice learners, participating in the chanting during Dharma assemblies in accordance with the Dharma still has supreme benefits. However, the true meaning of the term “Dharma assembly” is “an assembly where the Buddha Dharma is taught in accord with reality”—that is, a grand gathering in which a virtuous and knowledgeable mentor expounds the teachings of the Three-Vehicle Bodhi to the public. Thus, learners should ultimately seek a true, virtuous, knowledgeable mentor, abide by that mentor’s guidance, regularly listen to the Dharma, and participate in “Dharma-teaching assemblies,” cultivating extensive listening and Dharma-perfuming. This is what is truly meant by participating in the supreme “Dharma assemblies.” (Part 3 Ends)
#Chan #Dhamma #BuddhistTeachings #Cultivation #Zen #SpiritualPractice #Mindfulness #Wisdom #DharmaAssembly #MeditationInMotion #Contemplation #SpiritualGrowth
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