October 16, 1979 New York, New York Dharmadhatu Center
7:21 minutes Summary (AI-generated):This recording provides an explanation of the process through which an ordinary being's impure body, speech, and mind are transformed into a pure state. It addresses the presence of the innate tathāgatagarbha within all beings and the necessity of the indivisible union of method (upāya) and wisdom (prajñā) to realize this purity, specifically through the context of the mantra oṃ maṇi padme hūṃ and the seed syllables of the Five Dhyāni Buddhas.
Main Topics:
The Process of Transformation
The recording explains that Buddhas were once ordinary beings who achieved enlightenment through a specific path, rather than being inherently flawless from the very beginning. This process involves the gradual transformation of the impure states of body, speech, and mind into their pure counterparts.
The Inherent Buddha Nature
An explanation is provided regarding the 'pure ground,' which refers to the innate tathāgatagarbha or Buddha nature residing within the continuum of all sentient beings. This inherent seed of purity serves as the fundamental basis for the practitioner's spiritual development.
The Union of Method and Wisdom
The recording emphasizes that the path to purity is symbolized by the syllables maṇi and padme. It stresses that the transformation of the impure into the pure cannot be achieved by method (upāya) or wisdom (prajñā) acting independently; instead, they must be realized as an indivisible union, represented by the seed syllable hūṃ.
Seed Syllables and the Five Dhyāni Buddhas
The explanation connects the sacred mantra to the seed syllables of the Five Dhyāni Buddhas. Specifically, it discusses the syllable hūṃ in relation to Akṣobhya, the immovable Buddha, illustrating how the mantra serves as a physical manifestation of the compassion of all Buddhas.
