Six Patriarch Platform Sutra

Author: Cai Zhizhong
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-03-06
Features: The preliminary draft of the Platform Sutra of the Sixth Patriarch was written by Huineng's disciple Fazang, recording the life and teachings of Huineng, as well as his stories of seeking enlightenment, preaching, and guiding others. The Platform Sutra of the Sixth Patriarch has evolved into multiple versions over time, with the "Dunhuang Version" and the "Zongbao Version" being the most prevalent. This book comes with both a CD-ROM and a DVD. The Platform Sutra of the Sixth Patriarch is the crystallization of Huineng's teachings, centered on the Prajna (Bodhi) philosophy with the (purpose) of "understanding the mind and seeing the nature, sudden enlightenment leading to Buddhahood." "Prajna" is a Sanskrit term meaning "wisdom," and while Prajna itself has no form, the mind of wisdom is its form. All Prajna wisdom originates from a person's inherent Buddha-nature. Huineng believed that everyone possesses Buddha-nature, but differences in enlightenment lead to distinctions between wisdom and ignorance. By breaking free from the dust and delusions in the mind, one can attain the wisdom of the Dharma and achieve sudden enlightenment. The principle of breaking free from inner delusions is to have no preconceived notions, not cling to things, and not be influenced by worldly phenomena that give rise to delusions. This means transcending worldly phenomena, so the mind will not be stained by worldly troubles. This is called "wu nian" (non-attachment). The Platform Sutra of the Sixth Patriarch establishes "wu nian" as its core teaching.