In Buddhism, it is crucial to remember that as long as we have not attained enlightenment (become a saint), everything we understand and believe needs to be constantly examined and reassessed. Whether we belong to the Northern or Southern school of Buddhism, or whether we have memorized certain teachings or scriptures, the reality is that if we are not yet enlightened, our understanding, knowledge, and beliefs must always be questioned and re-evaluated.
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This constant reevaluation applies not only to the scriptures we read and the teachings we receive from our teachers, but also to our personal understanding and opinions. Everything, from the Buddhist texts to our personal experiences and the insights we believe we have gained, must be scrutinized. This approach helps us avoid becoming too attached to any specific belief or interpretation, as the ultimate truth is beyond our current understanding.
The Difference Between Doubt and Caution
It is important to differentiate between two concepts: doubt and caution. Doubt means a lack of trust or belief in anything, while caution is a careful, mindful approach to what we believe without assuming it is the absolute truth. Being cautious means that we hold our beliefs and understandings lightly, knowing that they are not final or absolute.
Doubt leads to skepticism, where we reject everything and trust nothing. Caution, on the other hand, encourages us to hold onto what we believe but remain open to the possibility that we could be mistaken or that our understanding may evolve. This is a key aspect of Buddhist practice — always staying humble and open to learning, never assuming that our current understanding is the final truth.
The Four Key Principles in Buddhist Practice
To guide us in this process of continuous reassessment, we must always focus on four key principles:
- The Ability to Let Go: We must have the ability to release attachments — to our ego, our beliefs, and our material possessions. Letting go is not just about external things but also about releasing the internal attachments that prevent us from growing spiritually.
- Living Responsibly: As Buddhists, we must take responsibility for our actions, words, and thoughts. Responsibility is not just about following external rules but also about being mindful of how our actions affect ourselves and others.
- Awakening: The practice of mindfulness is central to Buddhism. We must be present and aware of the present moment, understanding the nature of our thoughts, emotions, and actions as they arise.
- Caution: Finally, we must approach everything with caution. We should question, reexamine, and remain vigilant, especially when it comes to matters of the self and spiritual teachings. This helps us avoid falling into the trap of rigid beliefs or dogmas.
Avoiding Extremes: The Dangers of Bias and Prejudice
One of the greatest pitfalls in Buddhist practice is to develop bias or prejudice — whether it is bias against a particular school of Buddhism, against others who hold different views, or even against ourselves. The teachings warn against “biên kiến” (bias), “thành kiến” (prejudice), and “định kiến” (dogmatism). These are mental habits that can lead us to become fixed in our beliefs and judgment, blocking the path to true understanding and compassion.
When we position ourselves in opposition to others, labeling them as wrong while defending our own position, we are indulging in these harmful biases. Whether it is on the left or the right, for or against something, these extreme viewpoints create division and misunderstanding. In Buddhist philosophy, this is seen as a major hindrance to enlightenment.
As practitioners, we must strive to overcome these biases and develop a mindset of openness and unity. When we approach others with respect and understanding, regardless of their views or practices, we create space for mutual growth and deeper insight. The teachings emphasize that we must avoid clinging to any one side and instead approach all things with an open heart and mind, free from the traps of judgment and rigid belief.
Conclusion: Cultivating True Wisdom and Compassion
Ultimately, to truly walk the Buddhist path, we must continuously examine ourselves, our beliefs, and our understanding. We must remain humble and cautious, understanding that the truth is ever-evolving and that our current knowledge is not absolute. By cultivating the four key principles of letting go, living responsibly, awakening, and being cautious, we can avoid the dangers of bias, prejudice, and dogmatism, and move closer to enlightenment.
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Lesson by Venerable Toại Khanh