法苑珠林 89.8

89.8

The commentary states: Recently, one sees foolish men unwilling to accept deśanā, uttering false words and saying, "As long as I do not commit evil, that is called good; why must I be made to receive deśanā again?" The answer says: The Great Sage established the teachings just like a tally or seal: if one does not receive and practice them, there is no official verification. Therefore, one must vow and pray not to commit manifold evils; when practice is initiated based on vows, one can receive and uphold it. Just as an ox, though strong enough to pull a cart, must have a driver to reach a destination, if one does not resolve beforehand and rashly arouses goodness without an inner rule or check, upon later encountering conditions for sin one will commit it without stopping. It is because there was no prior vow that one commits manifold evils. The Great Sage knew their capacities, and therefore had them receive goodness. If you claim that not committing evil is itself good, then your not doing good should also be evil. Oxen, horses, donkeys, and mules also do not kill living beings; could they be considered good? This is merely a mind abiding in the morally neutral (avyākṛta), which has neither sinful nor meritorious karma. Therefore, one must generate thoughts and concentrate one's intention profoundly and firmly; only then is the path of karma completed.