Introduction to Buddhist Doctrines and Contemplation - Volume Three of the Collected Works of Song Ziming

Author: Song Zhiming
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2006-07-01
Features: After experiencing the joys and sorrows of life and broadly reading the journey of existence, we finally return to the presence of the Three Jewels, with pious faith, revering the supreme path of enlightenment. Thus, there arises the desire for in-depth understanding of the Dharma—seeking virtuous masters, associating with great teachers, studying scriptures and treatises, and entering monastic traditions; and there arises the aspiration to unify all teachings and integrate them into one’s own heart—holding all phenomena in perfect balance with the One Path. However, faced with the vast Tripitaka scriptures and numerous treatises, the differing doctrines of various schools, and the views of scholars; the varied approaches and goals of virtuous teachers, learners often feel overwhelmed by the depth and breadth of the Dharma, finding it difficult to comprehend and integrate, and may thus become discouraged due to contradictions. At this point, the book Introduction to Buddhist Doctrines and Contemplation may serve as a unifying guide for you, helping you grasp the essence of the Dharma across its various dimensions in a relatively short time.
The Buddha taught according to the capacities of individuals, and the Dharma spread through the efforts of people. The Dharma is rooted in the human world, and the human world is illuminated by the Dharma. The true meaning of the Dharma must be practiced through human wisdom to give it vitality. Therefore, any school that arises from the Dharma is established by accomplished masters, using skillful means to adapt to the needs of beings of different capacities in different times, guiding fortunate beings back to their true home. Thus, when we receive inspiration from Tiantai’s teachings and contemplation, we should practice the Dharma according to our own circumstances: such as cultivating mindfulness meditation through Tiantai, or "teachings in Tiantai, practice in Pure Land," or "Tiantai and Esoteric Buddhism are one, harmonious and non-dual," or "Tiantai and Chan are one, embracing both sudden and gradual enlightenment." All these approaches can vary according to individual suitability, using the Dharma as a means to attain enlightenment.
The Dharma is the most perfect and ultimate goal within human nature. Therefore, when the Dharma resides in the human heart, and a Buddhist practitioner truly cultivates it, with a lively and practical wisdom-action, they transcend all limitations while embracing, perceiving, and remaining free from obstruction in emptiness, becoming an unbound and liberated person! Sincerely hope that Introduction to Buddhist Doctrines and Contemplation provides you with the opportunity to integrate all the Dharma, enabling you to soar beyond the ocean of doctrines and contemplation, reaching the shore of Nirvana in the realm of wisdom!