The Nature of Goodness and Evil

The Illusion of External Shadows

Evil is not an inherent quality of our true self-nature. It is not something that exists from the very beginning. Instead, it is an external imposition, a collection of influences that have been added to us over time. These influences cloud our clarity and obscure the infinite potential that resides within our true self-nature.

When we allow these external influences to take root, we become stained by what we perceive as evil. This state is often the result of complex Causal Conditions, leading to consequences that we find difficult to control or manage on our own. The primary components that contribute to this state include ego-attachment, ego-views, ego-thoughts, the rigid insistence that I am right, and the tendency to judge others as wrong.

The Trap of Self-Interest

Whenever a thought arises that is motivated by personal gain, we become selfish. This selfishness creates a barrier, causing us to hold back from others and act with reservation. Once we fall into this pattern, we have effectively stepped into the trap of evil. In the realm of true Goodness, there is no place for the self. Similarly, in our true self-nature, there is no 'self' to be found. Goodness is simply a natural, inherent part of our true self-nature.

From the moment we are born, many of us are conditioned by habitual patterns. We live our lives thinking only of ourselves, constantly protecting our own interests, and holding back from genuine connection. Within these ingrained habits, we gradually lose touch with the inherently kind and pure nature that we were born with.

Returning to the True Self

If you wish to reclaim your true self-nature and restore the Goodness within, you must be willing to let go of or purify these negative tendencies one by one. The teaching to 'give rise to all roots of goodness and achieve the fruit of Bodhi' is the perfect way to prescribe the right medicine for this condition. It is a direct approach to healing the mind.

You must practise this diligently:

• The first time you try, it may feel unfamiliar.
• The second time, it becomes more natural.
• The third time, you begin to achieve success.
• If you do not succeed immediately, try again.

Continue this process until the practice of 'give rise to all roots of goodness and achieve the fruit of Bodhi' is fully integrated into your daily life. When it becomes as natural as breathing, the inherent Goodness of your true self-nature will have the opportunity to recover, and you will find your way back to your original, pure face.

The Path to Awakening

This transformation is a matter of great importance. It is something that you should commit to right now, in this very moment. You must be skilful at transformation, moving from confusion to clarity. By transforming evil into Goodness, and Goodness into the light of wisdom, you are walking the essential path toward becoming an awakened being. This record was written by the Buddha's disciple, Venerable HaiZe.