October 18, 1979
Boston, Massachusetts
Dharmadhatu Center:
Talk to members
16:12 minutes Summary (AI-generated):This recording provides an explanation of the foundational steps required to generate the altruistic mind, or bodhicitta, within the context of a larger study of Buddhist practice. It details the transition from taking refuge to the formal engagement with the bodhisattva path, emphasizing the necessity of developing a sincere wish to attain enlightenment for the benefit of all sentient beings through systematic mental training.
Main Topics:
The Foundation of Altruistic Intention
The recording begins by establishing the necessary foundation for generating an altruistic attitude, which is the act of taking refuge in the Three Jewels. This refuge serves as the essential basis for seeking the highest enlightenment for the sake of all sentient beings. The explanation emphasizes that this intention, or bodhicitta, must be actively cultivated through conscious thought and directed toward the welfare of others.
Methods for Cultivating the Mind
To facilitate the development of this attitude, the explanation introduces systematic methods such as the sevenfold cause and effect (saptāṅgaparyāya) and the practice of switching self and other (parātparāvṛtti). These techniques are designed to help the practitioner build great determination and to encourage the dedication of all virtuous actions to the liberation of all beings.
The Progressive Stages of Practice
The recording outlines a progression of spiritual development, moving from a preliminary wish to the formal undertaking of the bodhisattva vows. The explanation suggests that once a practitioner has gained sufficient experience in cultivating a stable altruistic intention, they may eventually progress toward more advanced mantric practices. This sequence ensures that the practitioner's motivation is firmly rooted before they engage in more complex disciplines.
Understanding Suffering and Karma
A significant portion of the explanation focuses on the necessity of understanding the nature of suffering and the importance of developing conviction in the law of cause and effect (karman). To effectively cultivate the altruistic mind, one must recognize the value of leisure and fortune, work to restrain ill behavior, and learn to control afflictive emotions (kleśas).
Distinguishing Between the Vehicles
Finally, the recording distinguishes between different paths of practice, specifically contrasting the śrāvakayāna—the vehicle of the hearers or solitary realizers—with the bodhisattvayana. While the former focuses on avoiding harm and managing one's own suffering, the latter is defined by the active pursuit of enlightenment for the benefit of others, summarizing the essence of the Buddhist doctrine as the duty to help others if possible, or at the very least, to ensure one does not cause them harm.
