Understanding the Sutras

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The sutras help us to understand the true reality of life and the universe so that we will know the proper way to think and behave as well as the appropriate cultivation method to be used. Only when we truly accord with the teachings of the sutra will we benefit.

if we chant or read indifferently without applying the principles, then our efforts will be futile. Only when we become aware of the purpose and method of chanting the sutra can we actually achieve any results. Today, people simply recite absentmindedly like a small child who sings a song with the right words to the right tune but without understanding the meaning. Only when we become aware of the purpose and method of chanting the sutra can we actually achieve any results.

If the Buddha's teachings are not integrated into our minds and our minds are still dictated by our afflictions and habits, what is the use of chanting the sutras? Only our verbal karma is good; whereas our minds and behavior still remains the same.

So, while our chanting does plant a seed in our Alaya consciousness, the seed is dormant for now. But even though the benefits are small and not immediate, it is better to chant a sutra than not to chant at all.

Whether you chant with a focus mind or with a wandering mind, you will plant a seed in your Alaya consciousness. If you chant with a focus mind and with sincerity, the vitality of the seed will be strong. If you chant with a wandering mind or with reluctance, the vitality of the seed will not be strong.

To learn Buddhism, what is the first step to do so? Start by reciting one sutra. Do we need to understand it? No! For when we have ended the affliction, our understanding will be erroneous. Then, why do we recite only this sutra? By reciting this sutra, the Three Learnings of self-discipline, deep concentration and wisdom are accomplished together.

When we are listening to Dharma lectures, we need to concentrate and understand the principles of the sutra and not the words themselves. This principles are the laws governing the Buddha's teachings as well as worldly teachings.

One who fully understands the principles of one sutra can then use them to master all other sutras. To benefit, the student must conscientiously and wholeheartedly follow the method taught by the teacher without being distracted by anything new or different.

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