Epilogue

Although the Bloodstream Treatise has few words, the content is very rich and profound. It belongs to the highest doctrinal tradition in Buddhism. How to apply its principles is critical; detailed instructions on this are already given in the Chan classic, the Platform Sutra. More specific and systematic methods can be found in tantric practices such as Dzogchen and Mahamudra. These practices provide targeted approaches for people of different capacities and in different stages, through which enlightenment can be achieved.

Beginners may not fully grasp the connotation of the Bloodstream Treatise , but just listening and studying it has merit. Moreover, it can sow the seeds of wisdom in our alaya consciousness, which will surely sprout one day. Nonetheless, we should still practice hard and not stagnate at the level of listening and contemplating. An opportunity such as this is rare and precious. The purpose of listening and contemplating is to prepare for practice. If we wait to practice, then no matter how much we learn, it will not be of use to liberation.

From a worldly perspective, the pursuit of higher education and income certainly has its value. But what needs to be understood is that Buddhism observes the world through higher wisdom and a broader perspective, yielding insights and results that greatly impact and change our lives. A small part of this change comes from listening and contemplating, but most of it stems from practicing. Therefore, we must engage in meditation and actual practice, so that we can truly apply the wisdom of the Dharma to our lives, and to serving our society and country.

Of course, you need not practice Buddhism, and you can believe in other religions. That is your personal freedom. But if you choose Buddhism, you must learn it. There are three key components to learning the Dharma: compassion, wisdom, and ability. Corresponding to these are the three patron bodhisattvas of Buddhism, or saviors who protect all sentient beings.

The first is Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva who symbolizes the compassion of the buddhas and bodhisattvas of the ten directions and three times. This is what we must first learn.

The second is Manjusri Bodhisattva who symbolizes the wisdom of all the buddhas and bodhisattvas. Without wisdom, in particular transcendent wisdom, it is impossible to overturn the incorrect views that are innate in human beings, let alone eradicate the afflictions rooted in these mistaken views. Burning incense, worshiping the buddha, building bridges and roads, and engaging in charity activities are all commendable and are expected of Buddhists, but these cannot eliminate our ignorance. The only thing that can eliminate ignorance is wisdom. This is the second thing we must learn.

The third is Vajrapani Bodhisattva who symbolizes the power of the buddhas and bodhisattvas of the ten directions and three times. When we have mastered a lot of knowledge and developed compassion, how can we use them to their full potential? It requires certain abilities. Many Buddhists, despite having some wisdom and compassion, often lack the ability to apply these essentials to life and work. Therefore, we need to train in this ability.

All in all, Buddhism considers wisdom, compassion, and ability to be crucial and indispensable. In fact, these should be an integral part of any kind of education, not just Buddhism. If an educational system focuses solely on wisdom and knowledge without teaching compassion or practical abilities, then the people it trains will certainly lack love and practical skills. What use is extensive knowledge in this case? For Buddhists, learning wisdom, compassion, and ability is equivalent to grasping the core of the 84,000 Dharma doors. If you learn these three things in this life, you can live a very meaningful life.

We all encounter setbacks and challenges in life, which are beyond our control. But if we have compassion, wisdom, and ability in our hearts, when setbacks and ups and downs come, we can deal with them calmly, and we can even help others face difficulties. At that point, the common expression "May all sentient beings be free from suffering and attain happiness" will no longer be empty talk, we can truly benefit oneself and others. It is my hope that everyone will practice diligently, remain steadfast, and constantly refine their skills!

 

Tsultrim Lodro

December 2021