Miao-Yun Aranya

The Essentials of Buddhist Practice

“Draw close to virtuous people” — Begin by seeking the guidance of good teachers and mentors.

“Listen to the true Dharma” — Seek to understand the teachings correctly and accurately.

“Reflect in accordance with the Dharma” — Develop a deep and thorough understanding of the Buddha’s teachings.

“Practice in accordance with the Dharma” — Put the teachings into practice through learning, reflection, and cultivation.

Master Yin Shun

The Buddha in the Human World

Train and strengthen yourself so that you can take charge of your own life, stand firm, and develop the strength to contribute to society and benefit others. As the Buddha taught: “For the sake of one’s family, forget the individual; for the sake of the village, forget the family; for the sake of the nation, forget the village; for the sake of the world, forget oneself.”

To “forget oneself” does not mean living only for oneself, nor does “forgetting the world” mean withdrawing from society and retreating into the mountains. True Buddhist practice means engaging fully with human life and working for the benefit of others.

Master Yin Shun

Here and Now, Here in This Place, and Here Among These People

Many people who practice Buddhism focus on reciting the Buddha’s name and aspire to be reborn in the Western Pure Land, as though leaving this world behind were the ultimate solution. To truly practice the Dharma is to embrace its essential meaning: here and now, in this place, and among these people.

When sharing the Dharma, we must not lose sight of the world in which we live. We must also respond to each person’s particular circumstances and needs, always seeking to benefit others. None of us lives in isolation; we are all connected to one another. Therefore, Buddhist practice should not only benefit ourselves but also bring benefit to many others.

Master Yin Shun