In the journey of a Bodhisattva, the transition from aspirational to ultimate Bodhicitta is marked by a deepening of practice and understanding. Verses 8 and 9 of The Foundation of All Perfections illuminate this transition and emphasize the crucial role of ethical discipline and mind training. The practice of the 7-Point Mind Training (Lojong) serves as a powerful method to cultivate and actualize this transition.

Verse 8 reminds us:

This verse highlights that without a firm foundation in the three types of morality—restraining from negative actions, engaging in positive actions, and working for the benefit of others—our efforts in thought-training (mind training) will not lead to enlightenment. It encourages us to internalize this truth deeply and commit ourselves to training diligently in the manner of the great Bodhisattvas.

Verse 9 continues:

Here, the focus shifts to the inner work of calming the mind and understanding the true nature of reality. This verse urges us to pacify our mental distractions and gain insight into the ultimate meaning of life. By doing so, we can attain the state where our mindstreams will be...

The figure below extends the Karmic Cycle model to represent three stages in this process of spiritual development.

• Afire: As in the Buddha's Fire Sermon, the world, as well as the individual, is aflame with the fires of desire, hatred, and delusion (the Three Poisons).
• Trained: Here we can see the impact of mind training: Through practices such as mindfulness, concentration, and wisdom, the flames of of the Three Poisons are extinguished. This results in sensations, perceptions, and mental formations becoming pacified. The mind's reaction to stimuli becomes more measured and intentional, rather than instinctive and habitual. This cultivated intentionality allows for skillful actions, which lead to positive karmic results and can move the world itself closer to liberation from suffering.
• Transformed: Reflect on the aspiration to extend the peace of a transformed mind beyond your personal experience to the wider world. Contemplate the actions you can take in your daily life to sow seeds of harmony, understanding, and kindness. Consider how each act of compassion contributes to a collective movement towards a more peaceful world, where all beings can find relief from suffering.
  • Envision the world in this transformed state -- transformed by the collective efforts of countless beings, where love, compassion and wisdom illuminate every corner. In this state, suffering is alleviated, and all beings are imbued with a profound sense of interconnectedness and love. There is a shared commitment to the well-being of all, and the fruits of a lifetime's work are evident in the joy and peace that pervade the environment.

Back To the Garden
Created by ChatGPT-4o/DALL-E3, 2024-08-31