Equality is not merely a concept; it is a profound spiritual state that lies at the very heart of Buddhism. To cultivate an equal heart is the true achievement of practitioners. It is the natural manifestation of one's inner state, reflecting in one's attitudes, perspectives, and behaviours long before one reaches the state of an awakened being. This equality is not something that can be forced; it is a prerequisite for , a condition that must be met for the true self to shine through the clouds of confusion.
Every single being, from the smallest particle of dust to the most complex life form, possesses the inherent, luminous Buddha-nature. Yet, because of a single moment of confusion, ignorance arises. We then find ourselves living in a state of delusion, wandering through the six realms of existence. We are reborn time and time again, sinking deeper into the cycle of rebirth, becoming increasingly unable to wake up or find our way back to our original nature. We remain trapped, suffering within the endless cycle of samsara.
The Tragedy of the Lost Soul
You must first understand and believe this truth. Only when you recognise the reality of your situation can you allow yourself to reach out for help. If you are drowning in the mud of suffering, you must be willing to extend your hand to be pulled out. If you refuse to acknowledge your state, you will remain one of the countless beings lost in the mire. It is not that the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas are unwilling to save you; rather, even when they extend their hands to offer salvation, if you are determined to remain in the mud, how can they pull you out?
How long will you remain in this state? How much longer must you suffer before you are willing to leave the mud behind? This is a question every practitioner must ask themselves. The Buddhas and Bodhisattvas are always ready to help, but the choice to accept that help remains with you.
The Unseen Reach of Buddha-Light
Even the smallest elements of our world, such as air molecules and dust particles, possess a spirit. They all contain the Buddha-nature, though it remains hidden and unmanifested. This is because the beings within these forms are lost in confusion and delusion. Through their long journey in the cycle of rebirth, they have created heavy . They are obscured by this karma, unable to act with autonomy, and thus they manifest in the forms of air molecules and dust particles. This is the trap of the illusory world of rebirth. To be lost in this state means that the path to Awakening remains distant and uncertain. You must be extremely cautious.
However, the Buddha-light shines equally and selflessly upon the entire earth. It illuminates the air molecules and the dust particles just as it illuminates all other beings. Through this light, the impurities within these molecules and particles are purified, transforming from darkness into purity. Although the physical eyes cannot see these changes, they are occurring in reality. Before they receive the benefit of , these molecules and particles remain as they are, trapped in their limited forms.
The Boundless of the Practitioner
An awakened practitioner, having rediscovered the equal heart, can cherish all things, whether they are sentient or insentient. They radiate true compassion and a sincere heart, manifesting the Buddha-heart that offers great mercy without conditions and great compassion that sees all as one. Even the smallest entities, such as air molecules and dust particles, can be saved through Chao Du, allowing them to transcend their limited forms. Without this, they would remain as they are for thousands or even millions of years, unable to escape.
As a practitioner continues to engage in fiercely diligent practice and purification, the equal heart manifests. This leads to Awakening, where one finds the Buddha-nature and the true self. The compassion and mind-capacity of such a practitioner become immeasurable. They deliver sentient beings as one, without discrimination, without favouritism, and without hierarchy. They respect the Buddha-nature in everyone and everything:
Sentient and insentient beings
Attached spirits
Beings in the plague and demon realms
All beings in this world and beyond
All of these can receive the benefit of Chao Du, leading to rebirth in the or a fortunate existence in the human or heavenly realms. This is truly the greatest fortune for all beings. .
