大乘起信論裂網疏 6.26

6.26

Question: If a person is already troubled by demonic evils, entangled by worldly affairs, and pressed by conditions of illness, how can they cultivate this supreme practice? Answer: The intended meaning of the text here is originally to urge one to be energetic in good time, so that demonic evils, worldly affairs, and conditions of illness do not gain an advantage. However, even if one is troubled by demonic evils, if one can be energetic according to the Dharma, then demonic events will certainly be eliminated. Even if one is entangled by worldly affairs, one must immediately cast aside worldly affairs to cultivate this diligence. Even if one meets with conditions of illness, one must also not spare one's body and life to cultivate this diligence. Just as Great Master Ciyun endured suffering in cultivating the Guanyin repentance, not only curing his illness but also acquiring supreme eloquence—the noble model still remains, and can truly be relied upon. Furthermore, even if one is confined to bed by a grave illness and unable to sit up, there is also the mindful-awareness samādhi that may well be cultivated, or one may simply form mental visualizations while lying down to cultivate these offerings and so forth. Keeping the mind unflagging through the six periods of day and night, just as shown in Direct Pointing to Buddha-Recollection regarding the method of combining practice while involved in worldly activities, can also be applied during illness; it will certainly extinguish obstructions and increase good roots. Alternatively, by relying on the text below to single-mindedly recite the name of Amitābha Buddha, one will also attain liberation. Four: The explanation of the gate of diligence is concluded.