龍舒增廣淨土文 9.22

9.22

Avalokiteśvara Bodhisattva stated that all goods are born from loving-kindness (maitrī); Laozi spoke of the three treasures, placing loving-kindness first; the Confucians speak of the five constant virtues, placing benevolence foremost. Their meaning is entirely the same. Those among people who are frequently prone to anger simply do not reflect on this meaning. Before even speaking of harming creatures and creating karma, they first injure their own vital energy and damage harmony. Only when one can reach the realm of loving-kindness and benevolence does one realize that anger is not good. While in the midst of anger, one is unaware of one's own suffering, like one walking amidst thorns and hastening toward a great mansion that is a dwelling place of peace. When one corrects one's ingrained habit of anger, it is like walking amidst thorns. When one's practice of loving-kindness and benevolence is perfected, it is like entering a great mansion to dwell in peace. This cannot be exhausted in words; one must simply practice it over a long time when anger arises, and naturally there will be joy. The two teachings of Buddhism and Daoism have inherently prohibited anger; the Confucians do so as well. When Huan Tui wished to harm Confucius, how did Confucius ever show anger? When Zang Cang slandered and blocked Mencius, how did Mencius ever show anger? Han Xin did not retaliate for the humiliation of crawling between legs, and Han Anguo held no grudge over the remark about dead ashes; these are all worthy of emulation. How much more so when dealing with the poor and lowly, managing servants and concubines, or when insulted and crossed by others, which easily provokes anger—one must be especially cautious and disciplined. For they too are humans; it is only due to their meager merit that they serve me. How could I indulge my temper and create evil karma? When investigated thoroughly, the benevolent and harmonious person gains great personal benefit. The Tripiṭaka states: "One who is seen with joy in this life was joyful upon seeing others in a past life." This is brought about by loving-kindness and harmony. How could one who cultivates the Pure Land not take this to heart? Even if all sentient beings commit great sins and evils, do not give rise to anger to soil your pure, cool mind. Reflect that they are only like this due to ignorance; if they had wisdom, they certainly would not do this. You should give rise to a mind of pity for their ignorance. Thus Zengzi said: "When you find out the truth, then be compassionate and do not rejoice." If one cultivates the Pure Land in this manner, one's wholesome roots will be exceedingly consummate and ripe.