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What is the Bodhi resolve? I have a very simple
analogy: Before we bring forth the Bodhi resolve, we are like
flour before yeast is added. Bringing forth the Bodhi resolve is
like adding yeast to the dough, so that it will rise and expand
over time. What is the Bodhi resolve like? It is without any form
or mark; it is only the enlightened Way. To be enlightened means
to understand; to understand the principles of the Way. Yet we
should not stop at understanding the principles; we must also
cultivate the Way.
The Bodhi resolve can also be compared to a pagoda:
no matter how tall a pagoda you plan to build, you have to start
from the ground. The ground is analogous to our "mind ground."
Just as we have to build a pagoda story by story from the ground
up, the Bodhi resolve is similarly built up from the mind ground.
Starting very small, it gradually grows greater and higher. And
eventually, when we perfect our merit and virtue, we will become
Buddhas. This is only a very simple and rough analogy. |
