Accepting the
unlimited
'samsara ', veneration and worship of limitless Buddhas etc.
Bhavanakrama-Stages-of-Meditation-by-Kamalashila
" Thus realising the world to be an illusion and directing his great compassion towards beings, he should think like this: "these ignorant people, unaware of the reality of
'dharmas' superimpose existence on basically non-existing dharmas and becoming baffled, gather many, many 'karmas' and 'klesas '. Thus they continue to wander in the cyclic round. I will, therefore, so work that I could make these people aware of true 'dharmas'? " After a little rest, the yogi should again engage himself in 'sarva-dharma-nirabhasa samadhi' (the samadhi in which no 'dharmas' exist). In this manner and in this sequence should he (i. e. the yogi) sit (in meditation) for an hour, a half 'prahara' (i. e. about an hour and a half), a full 'prahara' (i. e. about three hours) or for as long as possible.
Now, if he desires to rise up from his 'samadhi', he should diberate over it without undoing the squatting posture (' paryanka ') like this: although all these' dharmas' are uncreated in the ultimate sense but they still appear like 'rnaya' in varying and unthinkably attractive forms owing to a certain conglomeration of causal factors Chetu-pratyaya'); as such, there will be no chance for a refutation ('uchheda dristi ') and no end to contradictions Cupavada '), because nothing will come to hand on examination through 'prajria'. Hence, there is neither the context of a permanent view nor any end to superimpositions Csamaropa'). Here, those whose understanding is baffled owing to the confusion of their wisdom-eye, perform a lot of karmas through self-conceit and so go on wandering in the cyclic round. Those who, completely indifferent towards the world, without
'rnahakaruna ', continue to practise the perfection of giving
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('dana') etc. for 'sattvas', descend into the enlightenment of the 'sravaka' and the 'pratyeka-buddha ' owing to their being devoid of effort Cupayaya').
Those regarding the world to be without true existence t'nissavabhava') and vowing to uplift the entire world through the force of 'rnahakaruna ', their intellect being unbaffled as a magician's, fulfil the accumulation of 'punya' and 'jriana '- collections, attain the Tathagata status and they will live forever till the end of the world by fulfilling all the joys and welfare of the world. They, due to the force of their '[riana '- collections, having removed all 'klesas' never fall into 'samsara' nor do they descend into 'nirvana' owing to the accumulations of immense and immeasurable 'punya' through their concern for all beings; such as these become the sustenance of all beings. 'Therefore, I, desirous of the happiness and comfort of all 'sattvas ' and aspiring for 'un- fixed n irva na ' (' apratisthita nirvana '), should always endeavour for immense 'punya ' and 'jfiana ' collections, thus
should he think. ' As has been said in Arya Tathagata-guhya sutra also; "jfiana accumulation is for the removal of all defilements Cklesas '), 'punya'- accumulation is for the sustenance of all 'sattvas'. " Therefore, the lord bodhisattva rnahasattva should always endeavour for 'punya-sambhara' and 'jnana sambhara ' i. e. accumulation of merit and accu- mulation of knowledge. Arya Tathagatotpatti-sambhava-sutra also says; "There is only one reason for Tathagata's rebirth. What is it? 0 Jinaputra (son of the conqueror)! Tathagatas are reborn owing to tens of thousands of immeasureable causes. What are those, then? (They are) the causes for the rightful fulfillment of their insatiate accumulations of merit and knowledge. " Arya Vimala-kirti-nirdesa also states. "The tathagata's bodies are born of hundreds of merits, of all the meritorious dharmas, and of the countless 'roots of noble dharrnas Ckusal-dharma mula') etc. "
Then, undoing the 'paryanka ' posture slowly he should offer obeisance to all the Buddhas and boddhisattvas stationed. in the ten directions and, after worshipping and eulogising
them, he should perform such vows as 'aryabhadracharya' ete. After that he should engage in the attainment of all such 'punya ' accumulations as "dana ' etc. , which have been dedicated (for the sattvas' well-being) through such supreme
enlightenment as is embraced by 'sunyata' and 'karuna'. Those who believe 'sattvas' under the sway of good and bad 'karma', born of the contrarities of the mind, wander in
'samsara ' after enjoying heaven etc. as the fruit of their actions' and those who think nothing, perform no actions and hope to be released from 'sarnsara' without needing to think anything or do any' kusala karma' believing that conduct such as 'giving' (dana) etc. has been indicated for ignorant fools; it is through people of both these categories that entire Mahayana gets negated and Mahayana being root of all vehicles (yana), its negation will spell the negation of all other vehicles. The attitude of 'nothing need be thought of' will mean the negation of "prajna ' (wisdom) which analyses phenomena ('bhutas') as analysis or examination alone is the root of true knowledge ('jiiana'). When that is negated, transcendental wisdom will also be negated owing to the severing of its root. With 'lokottraprajria' gone, omniscience Csarva-karjfiata') will also get negated. To say that beneficient conduct like 'dana' ete. should not be practised will invariably lead to the negation of 'upayaya' such as giving Cdana').
Briefly speaking, 'prajfia ' and 'upayaya' alone constitute Mahayana. As Arya Gaya-sirsa says; "These two alone are the bodhisattva's way. What two? Well, 'prajna ' (discriminating wisdom) and 'upayaya ' (meaningful effort). " Tathagata- guhya-sutra too says, "Prajfia and upayaya' are meant for the accumulation of all the perfections Cparamitas') by bodhi- sattvas. " Therefore, the denial or negation of Mahayana will create a massive 'karma' superimposition Ckarmavarana'). So the wise person desirous of his own good should abandon even from a distance, like poisoned food, such poisonous words as are opposed to scriptures ('agama') and logic ('yukti') from people who deny Mahayana, are of selfish
intent, render not service to the learned and imbibe not the
? 88 BHA. VANAKRAMA spirit of Tathagatas words and who, as self-destroyers, are
also destroying others.
Negation of the analysis of things Cbhuta ') will spell the
denial of the most prominent of bodhi components, the 'pravichaya' (analysis) of dharmas. In the absence of 'bhuta ' examination, with what will the yogi make his mind enter immaculateness Criirvikalpata") when the mind has been
prone to fixation in such entities as form Crupa ') etc. since time immemorial? If it is said that all dharmas can be understood without recolleted-ness and without mentalisa- tion, it is not appropriate, because all experienced things ('dharmas') cannot be subjected to non-recollectedness and non-mentalisation without 'bhuta' examination. 'I do not have to recollect these 'dharmas', I do not have to mentalise them'; if, by thinking in this manner, the contemplation of non-recollectedness and non-mentalisation is practised on
those dharmas, they are bound to become recolleted and mentalised. If the mere absence of recolleted-ness and mentalisation is taken for non-recollectedness and non- mentalisation, it has to be thought out as to how the is-not-ness of both can come about. To have a 'hetu ' (cause) for 'abhava'(is-not-ness) is inappropriate. How can immaculation (' nirvikalpata ') ensure from the 'nirnimitta' (non- conceptualised) and the non-mentalised? Even an unconscious person being devoid of recollectedness and mentalisation can also be regarded as being in the 'nirvikalpa'
state as a consequence of such stupor Cavikalpata '). There is no other means except 'bhuta' -examination by which non-recollectedness Ca-smriti') and non-menatalisation Ca- manasikarita ') can be brought about.
Undoubtedly, even during 'a-smriti' and 'a-manasikara ' the non-self-existence of 'dharmas' cannot be (fully) realised with 'bhuta ' examination (alone). 'Dharmas' are not empty Csunya ') by nature'; now, this kind of a stipulation cannot be pierced through except through an analysis of emptiness. The removal of the 'avarana ' is not possible without the realisation of 'sunyata ', otherwise, everyone everywhere
BHA. VANAKRAMA-I1I 89
will be entitled to 'rnukti' (liberation).
What of the yogi who does not practise recollectedness
Csmriti') and mentalisation Cmanasikara') owing to his giving up the former or out of sheer folly, how can such an extremely foolish person become a yogi? Without examination of things and being engaged in 'a-smriti' and 'a manasikara ', he will become engrossed with delusion alone which will snuff out the light of true knowledge. If he is not shorn of re- collectedness nor is he foolish, how will he be able to practise non-recollectedness and non-mentalisation without 'bhuta' examinations It would be appropriate to say that such a person does not recollect while recollecting, does not see while seeing. How, with the practice of non-recollectedness and non-mentalisation, will buddha-dharmas like the previously residual and continued recollectedness Canusmriti')" etc. arise owing to the (inherent) contradiction involved? The experiencing of cold as opposed to heat does not permit the feeling of heat!
If the 'samadhi '-proficient yogi has any psychological knowledge, he must invariably have an 'alambana'. The common people cannot be suddenly enlightened without an 'alambana' (prop). By what opposing thing is the super- imposition of mental defilements Cklesas') removed? There is no possiblity for cessation of the. mind" for the common person who has not attained the Fourth Dhyana. " Therefore, non-recolletedness and non-mentalisation that have been spoken of for a good religious conduct ('saddharma') or true 'dharma' should also be viewed in the context of 'bhuta ' examination only and not otherwise. So, when the yogi, examining through correct 'prajna ', does not observe the arising of any 'dharma' in all the three times (i. e, the past, the present and the future), how shall he (be able to) do 'manasikara ' and 'smarana' (mentalisation and recollection)? He who even during the three times, has not experienced the "asattvas '? ? in the ultimate sense, how 'may he have recollectedness or mentalisation? For this very reason, he enters the immaculate '[fiana ' in which all contradictions have
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cessation or are warded off. Entering it, he realises 'sunyata' and realising it, he removes all snares of deviation.
The practitioner of wisdom Cprajfia ') coupled with means Cupayaya ') becomes totally proficient in 'samvriti' (the apparent) and 'paramartha' (the ultimate) truths. So by attaining knowledge bereft of superimpositions, he attains all 'Buddha-Dharmas'. Therefore, without 'bhuta ' analysis, there is neither the dawn of true knowledge nor the removal of "klesa ' cover. It is said in Manjusri Vikurvata-sutra;
"0 Darika! 48how does a bodhisattva become the victor in the battle'? (Reply) '0 Manjusril by not coming across any 'dharmas' after repeated examination". Hence the yogi, with his eye of knowledge wide open and after totally overcoming his 'klesa' foes with the weapon of 'prajna ' wanders about without fear un-like a frightened coward with eyes closed. It is said in Arya Samadhiraja-sutra also: "If one examines non- self 'dharrnas' and, examining them, meditates, it becomes a cause for the attainment of 'nirvana' fruit; any other cause ('hetu ') brings not peace. " Sutra-sammuchaya also says; "Himself engaged in the practice of 'vipasyana', if one does not help others engage themselves in 'vipasyana', it (i. e. his own practice) becomes an evil act. "
'Vipasyana' is of the nature of 'bhuta ' analysis; this has been stated in Arya Ratna-megha and Sandhinirmochana etc. Says Arya Ratnamegha; "The knowledge of the non-true existence of things Cnissvabhavata ') through analysis with insight Cvipasyana ') is termed as entering the' nirnirnitta '. " Arya Lankavatara also says; "0 wise one! the 'bhavas' when examined by the intellect do not yield any 'jfiana' about their individual and general characteristics. That is why it has been said that all 'dharmas' are non-existent. If 'bhuta'- examination is not done, it will lead to a refutation of the many kinds of analytical methods suggested in the 'sutras' by the lord. As such it would be proper to say that we, of little intellect and less courage, are incapable of (understanding) erudite ('bahusruti')49 analysis. The lord had praised erudition a lot; therefore, it is never appropriate to refute it. "
It has been said in Punarbrahma-pariprichha: "Those who get engaged in thinking over un-thinkable 'dharrnas', experience perversion of thought Cayonisa'j. ? ' Also, those who imagine as created 'dharmas' which are uncreated in the ultimate sense and regard them as transient and full of suffering as 'sravakas' do, get into the 'ayonisa ' (perversion) state owing to their thinking being bereft of (the two factors of) "samaropa ' (superimposition) and 'apavada' (contradiction)", (that is, because they do not consider the two factors).
Whatever has been said in refutation of such tendencies is not a refutation of (the desirability of) 'bhuta'-analysis which has been recommended by all the's utras '. Brahma- pariprichha-sutra itself says; "Chitta-sura (valiant of mind) bodhisattva has said that he who thinks over all dharmas with the mind and remains uncovered and untouched by them is called a 'bodhisattva' as such. " Again it says': "How do they (i. e. the bodhisattvas) become valorous? Well, when they do not find the 'sarvajfiata' mind while looking for it, they alone will become wise who examine abstract Cyonisa '), 'dharrnas':
,they categorise 'dharmas' as illusion Crnaya') and mirage (' marichi'). "
It should be known that whenever the din of words like 'achintya ' (unthinkable) etc. is heard, it is meant for pro- pounding the analysis of the core entity (' pratyatrna- vedaniyata ') of 'dharmas' for the refutation of the ego of such people as believed in the realisation of the reality (' tattva ') only through hearing and deliberating it; it also refutes 'ayonisa ' of the mind (Le. the mind's adherence to wrong, pervert 'dharmas'), It certainly does not mean a refutation of 'bhuta' examination; otherwise, as already stated, it would mean a contradiction of various arguments ('yukti') and scriptures C'agama'). Whatever knowledge is gained through 'prajfia' born of hearing and thinking should be contemplated upon through meditational wisdom and nothing else. A horse runs (well) on its familiar race-course, so 'bhuta ' examination or 'the analysis of all phenomena' must be practised. Although it may (turn out to) be of an opposite nature but,
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owing to its being of the quality of correct mentalisation ('yoniSa manasikara '), it generates undifferentiated ('nirvikalpik') 'jfiana'. With this belief, he who is desirous of such 'jriana' should practise this (examination of 'bhutas'), Arya Ratna-kuta says that with the generation of the fire of right 'nirvikalpa jfiana', it will burn itself away in that fire like two faggots burning themselves out in the fire generated by their own rubbing (' gharsana') together.
It is (sometimes) said that no 'kusala' (meritorious) acts etc. need be done as the exhaustion of 'karma' leads to liberation. Well, such a belief will (only) lead to 'ajivaka- vada">' That the exhaustion of 'karma' leads to liberation has not been propounded in the Lord's word. How then? (i. e, how can 'rnukti' or release come about)? Well, through the cessation of 'klesas' (mental defilements). It is not possible to exhaust action ('karma') (already) performed since eternity, because they are innumerable. While suffering the fruit of such actions during lower births, more karmas are generated. The non-cessation of 'klesas' makes them the cause of the non-cessation of 'karma' just as the light of a lamp will not cease without the lamp being put out. It has already been stated that the cessation of 'klesas' is impossible for one who denies 'vipasyana' (insight). If it is agreed that the practice of 'vipasyana' is essential for the cessation of 'klesas', 'klesa ' cessation itself will give liberation and the labour for the exhaustion of 'karma' will become meaningless. To say that non-meritorious (a-kusala) action should not be performed is appropriate. Why "kusal karma' is refuted is that if its performance generates 'samsara', it is not proper. And, only those 'kusala' acts' are 'samsara' prone which are born of all the contrarities of 'self' etc. and (certainly) not the actions of boddhisattvas which are born of great compassion Cmahakaruna') and their dedication of 'punya' (parinamita) through transcendental enlightenment. So it has been indicated about the 'parinamana' (dedication) of these very ten 'kusala dharmas' as (acts of) extreme purification in the 'sadhana' (practice) of the' sravakas', the' pratyeka-buddhas' ,
the 'bodhisattvas' and the Buddhas. Arya Rantnakuta also states; "Like the collection of water from all the great rivers into the great ocean, the root-merits Ckusala-mula') collected by the bodhisattvas through various means, after being transformed into 'sarvajfiata ' become one taste (i. e. equanimity) in (that) omniscence (which reveals the true nature of things). "
The wealth that the Buddhas and the bodhisattvas earn in the shape of (their) physical form Crupa-kaya '), field- purification C' ksetra-parisuddhi '),52 aura (prabha), 53 proliferation Cparivara ')," full happiness Cmahabhoga T" etc. is the fruit of the accumulation of 'punya'; so has it been mentioned here and there in the siitras by the Lord; these too will get negated. The refutation of 'kusala ' conduct also means? the refutation of the vow of emancipation Cpratimoksa sarnvaraj" etc. Thus his (i. e. the yogi's) shorn head and begging bowl ete. will be of no avail; when 'kusala ' action becomes indifferent totpurification' Cabhisamskara') it will lead to indifference towards 'samsara ' and towards actions for the sake of 'sattvas'. In consequence, it will also make 'bodhi' (enlightenment) a distant thing. It has been said in Arya-sandhi-nirmochana; "I have not spoken of supreme true enlightenment for those who totally turn away from actions for 'sattvas' and from the rectification of 'samskaras. " Arya Upali-pariprichha also says. "To be indifferent towards 'samsara ' constitutes great misconduct for 'bodhisattvas'. Accepting 'samsara ' is supreme good conduct. " Arya- Vimala-kirti-nirdesa also states: going into samsara with 'upayaya ' is release for boddhisattvas. 'Prajfia ' without 'upayaya' is shackling, 'upayaya ' with 'prajfia ' is release; 'prajfia' with 'upayaya' is release. " Arya Gaganaganja says, "1;0 be averse towards 'samsara' is evil karma for bodhisattvas. " Also said in Sutra-sammuchaya, "Even 'asarnskrita dharmas' are to be analysed and to be averse to 'samskrita dharmas' is evil 'karma'. " If he knows the 'bodhi'<path but does not investigate the way of Perfections (' parrnita-yana '), it is tantamount to doing 'mara-karma ' (evil 'karma'). It is again
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said therein; "From fixation of the mind in 'dana ' etc. to
fixation of the mind in 'prajfia' is evil karma (' mara karma'). " . Now in this assertion there is no forbidding of practising
'dana' etc. but what has been forbidden is the addiction of the mind to the ego and I-ism, in the concept of the 'grahya' (the object to be achieved) and "grahaka ' (the person who receives or achieves) - that is, the received and the receiver, contrary fixation in the donor's? charity Cdana '). 'Dana' etc. dependent on contrary fixation is impure, 'mara karma'. Otherwise, 'dhyana ' etc. will also not be worth practising, how will, then, release come about?
Whatever 'dana' etc. is given because of or by keeping in view the variety of 'sattvas' by the donor ('aupalam-bhika') is impure. Arya Gaganaganja propounds it thus: '''dana' etc. which indicate differentiation among beings Csattvas') are the acts of the devil Cmara karma')". So it has been stated in Tri- skandha-parinamana. '''Dana'(giving), 'sila ' (conduct), 'ksanti ' (forbearance) 'veerya' (valour or effort), 'dhyana ' (meditation), 'prajria ' (wisdom), not aware of the' samata ' (equivalence) of all these by one who falls into obtainment (of 'dana' etc. ), for such a one I teach as to how to protect 'sila ' (character) from diseased" "sila ' or misconduct (born of) lapses" in 'dana ' and 'ksanti-bhavana ' (contemplation of forbearance) from the nomenclature of 'I' (sva) and 'other' ('para') etc. " Here too such giving (dana) etc. which rises above the contrarities of differentiation Cnanatva'), becomes purified for the giver ('aupalam-bhika'); so has it been propounded and not the forbidding of 'dana ' etc. in toto; otherwise, 'dana' etc. would have been wholly commended as such, and its descending into contrary obtainment would not have found mention: It has been said in Brahma- pariprichha also: "all conduct Ccharya ') is 'parikalpita-v" (based on factor or causes) ; 'bodhi alone is without 'hetu' or 'pratyaya ' (nisparikalpa). "! " Owing to the varying nature of practices for the generation of 'bodhi' (enlightenment), even 'bodhi' is (sometimes) mentioned as 'parikalpita' (created or fashioned). What has been propounded here is that to stay in
a state of effortless abstraction is the explanation= of the bodhisattva alone and none else's. W;hat has been said is about the uncreatedness of 'dana ' etc. in the ultimate sense and not that no practice (of it) should be performed.
The Buddhas who were honoured by the Lord in Dipankara= - avadana and whose names could not be enu- merated in an aeon ('kalpa') (by the lord) were never forbidden from any practice (' charya ') during their bodhi- sattva period. Dipankara also did not refute any of the lord's 'charyas' However, when he (i. e bodhisattva Dipankara) was noticed, in the state of 'santa animitta-vihara ' ( a state of absolute equipoise and tranquillity) during the eighth 'bhurni', he expounded this (teaching) but there also he did not forbid its practice. The bodhisattva's supreme revelling in the 'animitta'v' during the eighth 'bhumi' has been forbidden
'by the Buddhas in Dasabhumisvara 'lest they may attain their 'nirvana' here itself'. If no 'charya ' (practice) is to be performed at all, it would negate all that has been said earlier (about the bodhisattva's charya),
Again, Brahma-pariprichha says: "He gives in charity but does not desire its fruit; he guards his 'sila ' but it is never superimposed. " "0 Brahma! become non-returning Cavaivartika ')'? in Buddha dharmas when equipped with four 'dharmas'. " What four?
Accepting the unlimited 'samsara ', veneration and worship of limitless Buddhas etc. will stand against anything. It is proper to say that practice should be done neither with mild senses ('mridu indriya'j'" nor with sharp senses Ctiksana indriya. ')" alone, for in this way, for the bodhisattvas established in the first stage to the tenth, the 'charya' (practice) of 'dana' etc. is generated nor does he roam'" not in the residual appendices. ? ' thus has it been said. It is improper to say that one who has entered the 'bhumi' is of 'soft senses'. As has been stated in Arya Upali- pariprichha; "Only he who is established in the non- generating Idharma-ksanti' should practise renunciation C'tyaga'),7? great renunciation (rna hatya ga )? ' and total renunciation Cati-tyaga'j. ? " Sutra samuchaya also says: 'the
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Kasiraja (the king of Kasi) to be a fool (lit. of tainted wisdom) who gave away pieces of his flesh to the falcon in lieu of that of the pigeon? 'No Lord' replied Maitreya. The Lord continued, '0 Maitreya! Whatever 'kusal-rnulas' (root-merits) equipped with six perfections were earned by me while practising the conduct of the bodhisattvas, did they do any harm to me? 'No lord! ' replied Maitreya. The lord said, '0 Ajita! ' you also practised perfect 'dana' paramita (the perfection of giving) for sixty aeons C'kalpas') and equally practised 'prajna- paramita ' (the perfection of Wisdom) for sixty 'kalpas'. Even then, these ignorant persons will say that a single path like that of 'sunyata alone will lead to enlightenment (bodhi). Such a person will become impure of conduct Ccharya') or practice. " While practising 'sunyata ' alone they will enter into the 'sravaka ' s ' 'nirvana'. Therefore, 'prajfia must be practised with 'u pa ya ya' .
Acharya Nagarjunapada says in Sutra-sammuchaya, bodhisattva should not practise serious dharmas without the skill of means Cupayaya '). " Herein, the acharya has expounded what he got from sources like Arya Vimalakirti- nirdesa etc. and not that these are the words of Acharya Nagarjunapada (himself). It is not proper for learned observors to forsake the Lord's words which comprise scriptures Cagama') and logic ('yukti') and accept the words of ignorant fools. It is said in Arya Ratna-kuta: "Sunyata which comprises the blessing of omnipotence and is accompanied by such 'kusalas ' (merits) as giving Cdana ') etc. should be meditated upon as such. " And again; "0 Kasyapal just as the king performs all his functions with the assistance of his minister, so also does the "prajfia ' of the bodhisattvas
equipped with the skill of 'upayaya ' perform all the tasks of lord Buddha. "
He who practises 'sunyata' only will not have entry into 'nirvana'. The lord has said in Arya Tathagata-guhya surra, "One should not practise' ekanta-nirlambana-chitta', i. e. the solitary propless mind; skill in means Cupayaya') should also be practised. " To illustrate this, it is added, "0 Kulaputra! just
bodhisattva, equipped with the attainment of the six perfections, functions through the 'riddhi' (special power) of Tathagata. There is nothing speedier than the speed of Tathagata's power. And, for the boddhisattvas, there is no path speedier than that of the six perfections, and the ten 'bhumis'. " The sutra says that mental generation (i. e. tendencies) is refined gradually like the refining of gold . . Arya Lankavatara and Dasa-bhurnisvara also state: "When the bodhisattva gets established in 'tathata ' he enters the first 'bhumi'. After that, step by step, he enters the 'Tathagata bhumi, after refining the preceding 'bhumis'. Therefore, there is no other gateway than that of 'bhumis' and 'paramitas ' (perfections) to simultaneously enter the city of Buddha. "
It is improper to say that as all the Six Perfections come within the ambit of 'dhyana' and that all of them are fulfilled by its practice, so other perfections like dana etc. need not be practised. If it were so then, owing to the six perfections coming within the ambit of Lord Buddha's (gomaya- mandala)" only mandala," should be' practised and not "dhyana ' etc. Even a . sravaka ' who has entered the absorption C'sama patti ') of 'nirodha' -samadhi" will be deemed to have attained the fulfilment of the six perfections through the non-recurrence C'a-sarnudachara ') of the objective ('nimitta') etc. In that case there will be nothing to proclaim the contrast between the "sravaka ' and the bodhisattva. The bodhisattvas must practise the six perfections under all circumstances. In order to substantiate it, the lord has shown the presence of all other 'pararnitas' (perfection) in every single "paramita '. It is said in Sarvadharma-vaipulya; "0 Maitreya! about this acquisition of the six perfections which has been spoken of for the enlightenment of bodhisattvas, the ignorant persons would say that the bodhisattvas should be well instructed in the perfection of wisdom Cprajfia-paramita') alone, of what avail is his interest in other 'pararnitas'? They regard the other "pararnitas as 'stained'. Then, 0 Ajita! do you take that
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as fire burns only with its requisite material Cupadana') and is quietened in its absence, so also the mind is fired by its prop Calambana') and becomes quietened in its absence. The bodhisattva, with his "prajna-paramita ' (perfection of wisdom) honed and equipped with the skill of 'upayaya ' knows how to calm down 'alambana' but will not calm down the one with benificent roots. In him no 'klesalambana' (the prop of mental defilements) arises but he is established in the 'prop of perfection' Cparamita-alambana ') instead. He examines the 'alambana' of 'sunyata ' but will look to 'rnahakaruna ' (great compassion) as the 'alambana' for all sattvas. In this way, '0 Kulaputra! the bodhisattva attains the mastery of 'alarnbana' with his refined perfection of 'prajna'(wisdom) and the skill of 'upayaya ' (means). " So saying in detail, he further amplifies; "The bodhisattva has no such 'alambana' as is not meant for the accumulation of the knowledge of the reality of things, that is, Buddhas 'jnana' The bodhisattva, all whose 'alambanas' get transformed into supreme enlightenment, alone is skilful in 'upayaya ' and such a one sees all 'dharmas' as embracing 'bodhi'. Even then, 0 Kulaputra! there is nothing in the three thousand or many thousands of' loka-dhatus' (wordly components) which is not meant for the 'sattvas' enjoyment. 0 Kulaputra' there is no such 'alambana' which the skilful-in-effort bodhisattva does not consider useful for his enlightenment. " Thus said at length. In this manner, the acquisition of wisdom Cprajna') and means Cupayaya') by bodhisattvas has been indicated in an unlimited number of sutras. If he himself cannot start the valorous effort of accumulating 'punya' collection through 'dana' etc. it is not proper for him to preach it to others as that would be tantamount to deceiving both himself and others.
It has been propounded in the 'yukti' (literature of logic) and 'agama' (scripture) that the bodhisattvas, after 'bhuta- examination' should make a collection of such 'punya' accumulations as 'dana' etc. So the wise ones have said that one should forsake like poison the words of egotistical, half- read persons and act in accordance with the nectar like words
of such learned scholars as Acharya Nagarjuna and others by generating mahakaruna for all 'rnahasattvas ' remain ing unattached as a magician and should endeavour to uplift the whole world through the transformation of all beneficient practices like 'dana ' etc. into 'anuttra-samyaka-sambodhi' (transcendental, supreme enlightenment). It has been said in Arya Dharma-samgiti, "Just as a magician endeavours to undo his own creation and being already aware of its illusionary aspect, is unattached to it, so also the bodhisattva, conscious of illusionary nature of the three states of existence Ctribhava ') past, present and future and having attained perfect enlightenment is ready (to do his duty) towards the world because he already knows its reality. "
In this way, he who constantly practises 'prajfia ' and 'upayaya ' with reverence, his mental emanations having gradually matured, more and more of extremely pure 'ksana'" is generated for him. His meditation on the meaning of things having attained excellence, he becomes aware of the extremely clear' dharma dhatu " ? (the true essence of things) devoid of all fictionality Ckalpana-jala '). He attains transcendental knowledge as clear as the calm, windless lamp. He then achieves the 'alambana ' of the ultimate of things and enters the 'darasana marga '. He attains the first 'bhumi' (stage). After refining the succeeding stages one after another and removing all accumulated' avarnas ' like
(refining) gold, attains unattached and unassailable 'jfiana ' and reaches 'Buddha bhumi' (the stage of Buddhahood), the foundation of all virtue; also he obtains 'alambana ' in the shape of the fulfilment of his work. Therefore, those who desire 'Buddha-hood ' should endeavour to tread the Middle Path.
Mayall people attain the Middle path as the result of whatever 'punya' (merit) I may have earned by indicating the 'madhya marga' (middle path) in this way.
Good people, after removing the dirt of jealousy ere. remain insatiate, like the ocean with its waters and, after good examination, continue accepting good words just as the
? 100 BHi\VANAKRAMA
(royal) swan gladly weans milk from water.
Hence, the learned people, after overcoming the
prejudices of their minds, should accept good words from even the ignorant.
Here ends the final Bhavanakrama composed by Acharya Kamalasila.
GLOSSARY - I
1. Bhavanakrarna - 'bhavana ' is meditation; it consists of visualisation and contemplation of a resolve, an object or an idea and strictly meditating on it in accordance with vows undertaken; the sequence of meditational process. For example, 'rna itri', 'karuna', 'rnudita ' and 'upeksa' are the four exalted states of the mind. Also called 'brahrna-vihara ' the 'bhavana ' of these four leads the practitioner to 'sarnyaka' pratipatti or true realisation, his mental defilements having evaporated.
2. 'adfkarmika ' - a novice initiate who wishes to pursue the bodhisattva path, of the four-fold tantra quadrangle in Mahayana- krtya-tantra, charya-tantra, yog-tantra and anuttar~tantra - krryatantra's standard text is Adikarma-pradeep which deals with the rules of initiation and subsequent conduct as prescribed for an 'adlkarmik bodhisattva'
3. sarvajfiata - the knowledge of the true nature of all phenomena, that is, 'nissvabhavata'.
4. karuna - compassion.
5. bodhichitta - enlightened mind.
6. pratipatti - perception, comprehension.
7. dharmah - disciplines, instructions, practices.
8. bhadanta - an honorific for a realised monk.
9. purvangama - that which goes ahead of a thing; precursor, fore-
runner.
10. as at 9 above.
11. adhisthana - object of contemplation, focal idea to reflect on. 12. sarnbhara - accumulation, collection.
13. trividha dukha - three-fold suffering of body, mind and speech. 14. traidhatuka - beings living in the three worlds of humans, gods
and hell dwellers, the earth, the heavens, the hells.
15. pretas - disembodied spirits, 'preta-loka' is one of the six realms
of existence after death.
16. tiryaka - another realm of existence where one is born as a
dragging, crawling beast.
17. samadhana-chetsa - of composed mind.
18. pra~ma - tranquillity.
19. anusaya - impurity generated by feelings of attachment, lust etc. 20. karnavachara - one who always wanders in the realm of desire or
kama; it is also equated with, 'deva-loka ' by some as the gods
always dwell in 'kama'.
21. defilements born of actions. 22. suffering born of sarnskaras.
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23. chitta-samata - a mental attitude of total equality for all beings; it is achieved through the practice of 'paratma-sarnata ' or by exchanging your own self with others.
24. sama-pravritta - equitably disposed towards all; equal concern . .
25. nispanna - complete, full, equanimous.
26. bodhichitta - a mind that aspires after bodhi or the enlightenment
of a bodhisattva.
27. prarthnakararn - importunate, solicitous.
28. samyaka-sambodhi - the ultimate or correct knowledge of reality;
true cognition of 'bhuta-tathata'.
29. par-sarnadapana - acquiring by others.
30. pratipatti - attainment of supreme knowledge.
31. vajra-ratna - adamantine gem; supreme, impenetrable substance.
32. chittotapada - generating the mind, inducing it towards
'sarvajfiata ' .
33. gut:tas- qualities.
34. sravaka - lit. hearer.
35. pratyeka-buddha - lit. solitary realiser.
36. paramita - perfection
37. upayaya - means, practice.
38. dana-pararnita - perfection of giving.
39. parjfia-pararnita - perfection of wisdom.
40. pranidhi - vow, fixing the mind with determination.
41. kusala-rnula - practices that lead to meritorious action, root-merit.
42. anumodana - commending.
43. sadharanani - common, ordinary.
44. Buddha-dharma - pratices enjoined on a bodhisattva.
45. bodhi-sarnbhara - accumulation of the attributes of
enlightenment.
46. vipaka - fruit, result in maturation of actions done.
47. akasa-dhatu - the element of space or sky.
48. buddha-ksetrani - Buddha-fields, believed to be two dozen in
number; the Mahayana concept of the presence of more than one Buddha simultaneously presiding in their own 'lokas' or worlds, their' ksetras' (fields) like the sukha-vati-vyuha of Amitabha Buddha.
49.
'dharmas' superimpose existence on basically non-existing dharmas and becoming baffled, gather many, many 'karmas' and 'klesas '. Thus they continue to wander in the cyclic round. I will, therefore, so work that I could make these people aware of true 'dharmas'? " After a little rest, the yogi should again engage himself in 'sarva-dharma-nirabhasa samadhi' (the samadhi in which no 'dharmas' exist). In this manner and in this sequence should he (i. e. the yogi) sit (in meditation) for an hour, a half 'prahara' (i. e. about an hour and a half), a full 'prahara' (i. e. about three hours) or for as long as possible.
Now, if he desires to rise up from his 'samadhi', he should diberate over it without undoing the squatting posture (' paryanka ') like this: although all these' dharmas' are uncreated in the ultimate sense but they still appear like 'rnaya' in varying and unthinkably attractive forms owing to a certain conglomeration of causal factors Chetu-pratyaya'); as such, there will be no chance for a refutation ('uchheda dristi ') and no end to contradictions Cupavada '), because nothing will come to hand on examination through 'prajria'. Hence, there is neither the context of a permanent view nor any end to superimpositions Csamaropa'). Here, those whose understanding is baffled owing to the confusion of their wisdom-eye, perform a lot of karmas through self-conceit and so go on wandering in the cyclic round. Those who, completely indifferent towards the world, without
'rnahakaruna ', continue to practise the perfection of giving
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BHAVANA. KRAMA-III H7
('dana') etc. for 'sattvas', descend into the enlightenment of the 'sravaka' and the 'pratyeka-buddha ' owing to their being devoid of effort Cupayaya').
Those regarding the world to be without true existence t'nissavabhava') and vowing to uplift the entire world through the force of 'rnahakaruna ', their intellect being unbaffled as a magician's, fulfil the accumulation of 'punya' and 'jriana '- collections, attain the Tathagata status and they will live forever till the end of the world by fulfilling all the joys and welfare of the world. They, due to the force of their '[riana '- collections, having removed all 'klesas' never fall into 'samsara' nor do they descend into 'nirvana' owing to the accumulations of immense and immeasurable 'punya' through their concern for all beings; such as these become the sustenance of all beings. 'Therefore, I, desirous of the happiness and comfort of all 'sattvas ' and aspiring for 'un- fixed n irva na ' (' apratisthita nirvana '), should always endeavour for immense 'punya ' and 'jfiana ' collections, thus
should he think. ' As has been said in Arya Tathagata-guhya sutra also; "jfiana accumulation is for the removal of all defilements Cklesas '), 'punya'- accumulation is for the sustenance of all 'sattvas'. " Therefore, the lord bodhisattva rnahasattva should always endeavour for 'punya-sambhara' and 'jnana sambhara ' i. e. accumulation of merit and accu- mulation of knowledge. Arya Tathagatotpatti-sambhava-sutra also says; "There is only one reason for Tathagata's rebirth. What is it? 0 Jinaputra (son of the conqueror)! Tathagatas are reborn owing to tens of thousands of immeasureable causes. What are those, then? (They are) the causes for the rightful fulfillment of their insatiate accumulations of merit and knowledge. " Arya Vimala-kirti-nirdesa also states. "The tathagata's bodies are born of hundreds of merits, of all the meritorious dharmas, and of the countless 'roots of noble dharrnas Ckusal-dharma mula') etc. "
Then, undoing the 'paryanka ' posture slowly he should offer obeisance to all the Buddhas and boddhisattvas stationed. in the ten directions and, after worshipping and eulogising
them, he should perform such vows as 'aryabhadracharya' ete. After that he should engage in the attainment of all such 'punya ' accumulations as "dana ' etc. , which have been dedicated (for the sattvas' well-being) through such supreme
enlightenment as is embraced by 'sunyata' and 'karuna'. Those who believe 'sattvas' under the sway of good and bad 'karma', born of the contrarities of the mind, wander in
'samsara ' after enjoying heaven etc. as the fruit of their actions' and those who think nothing, perform no actions and hope to be released from 'sarnsara' without needing to think anything or do any' kusala karma' believing that conduct such as 'giving' (dana) etc. has been indicated for ignorant fools; it is through people of both these categories that entire Mahayana gets negated and Mahayana being root of all vehicles (yana), its negation will spell the negation of all other vehicles. The attitude of 'nothing need be thought of' will mean the negation of "prajna ' (wisdom) which analyses phenomena ('bhutas') as analysis or examination alone is the root of true knowledge ('jiiana'). When that is negated, transcendental wisdom will also be negated owing to the severing of its root. With 'lokottraprajria' gone, omniscience Csarva-karjfiata') will also get negated. To say that beneficient conduct like 'dana' ete. should not be practised will invariably lead to the negation of 'upayaya' such as giving Cdana').
Briefly speaking, 'prajfia ' and 'upayaya' alone constitute Mahayana. As Arya Gaya-sirsa says; "These two alone are the bodhisattva's way. What two? Well, 'prajna ' (discriminating wisdom) and 'upayaya ' (meaningful effort). " Tathagata- guhya-sutra too says, "Prajfia and upayaya' are meant for the accumulation of all the perfections Cparamitas') by bodhi- sattvas. " Therefore, the denial or negation of Mahayana will create a massive 'karma' superimposition Ckarmavarana'). So the wise person desirous of his own good should abandon even from a distance, like poisoned food, such poisonous words as are opposed to scriptures ('agama') and logic ('yukti') from people who deny Mahayana, are of selfish
intent, render not service to the learned and imbibe not the
? 88 BHA. VANAKRAMA spirit of Tathagatas words and who, as self-destroyers, are
also destroying others.
Negation of the analysis of things Cbhuta ') will spell the
denial of the most prominent of bodhi components, the 'pravichaya' (analysis) of dharmas. In the absence of 'bhuta ' examination, with what will the yogi make his mind enter immaculateness Criirvikalpata") when the mind has been
prone to fixation in such entities as form Crupa ') etc. since time immemorial? If it is said that all dharmas can be understood without recolleted-ness and without mentalisa- tion, it is not appropriate, because all experienced things ('dharmas') cannot be subjected to non-recollectedness and non-mentalisation without 'bhuta' examination. 'I do not have to recollect these 'dharmas', I do not have to mentalise them'; if, by thinking in this manner, the contemplation of non-recollectedness and non-mentalisation is practised on
those dharmas, they are bound to become recolleted and mentalised. If the mere absence of recolleted-ness and mentalisation is taken for non-recollectedness and non- mentalisation, it has to be thought out as to how the is-not-ness of both can come about. To have a 'hetu ' (cause) for 'abhava'(is-not-ness) is inappropriate. How can immaculation (' nirvikalpata ') ensure from the 'nirnimitta' (non- conceptualised) and the non-mentalised? Even an unconscious person being devoid of recollectedness and mentalisation can also be regarded as being in the 'nirvikalpa'
state as a consequence of such stupor Cavikalpata '). There is no other means except 'bhuta' -examination by which non-recollectedness Ca-smriti') and non-menatalisation Ca- manasikarita ') can be brought about.
Undoubtedly, even during 'a-smriti' and 'a-manasikara ' the non-self-existence of 'dharmas' cannot be (fully) realised with 'bhuta ' examination (alone). 'Dharmas' are not empty Csunya ') by nature'; now, this kind of a stipulation cannot be pierced through except through an analysis of emptiness. The removal of the 'avarana ' is not possible without the realisation of 'sunyata ', otherwise, everyone everywhere
BHA. VANAKRAMA-I1I 89
will be entitled to 'rnukti' (liberation).
What of the yogi who does not practise recollectedness
Csmriti') and mentalisation Cmanasikara') owing to his giving up the former or out of sheer folly, how can such an extremely foolish person become a yogi? Without examination of things and being engaged in 'a-smriti' and 'a manasikara ', he will become engrossed with delusion alone which will snuff out the light of true knowledge. If he is not shorn of re- collectedness nor is he foolish, how will he be able to practise non-recollectedness and non-mentalisation without 'bhuta' examinations It would be appropriate to say that such a person does not recollect while recollecting, does not see while seeing. How, with the practice of non-recollectedness and non-mentalisation, will buddha-dharmas like the previously residual and continued recollectedness Canusmriti')" etc. arise owing to the (inherent) contradiction involved? The experiencing of cold as opposed to heat does not permit the feeling of heat!
If the 'samadhi '-proficient yogi has any psychological knowledge, he must invariably have an 'alambana'. The common people cannot be suddenly enlightened without an 'alambana' (prop). By what opposing thing is the super- imposition of mental defilements Cklesas') removed? There is no possiblity for cessation of the. mind" for the common person who has not attained the Fourth Dhyana. " Therefore, non-recolletedness and non-mentalisation that have been spoken of for a good religious conduct ('saddharma') or true 'dharma' should also be viewed in the context of 'bhuta ' examination only and not otherwise. So, when the yogi, examining through correct 'prajna ', does not observe the arising of any 'dharma' in all the three times (i. e, the past, the present and the future), how shall he (be able to) do 'manasikara ' and 'smarana' (mentalisation and recollection)? He who even during the three times, has not experienced the "asattvas '? ? in the ultimate sense, how 'may he have recollectedness or mentalisation? For this very reason, he enters the immaculate '[fiana ' in which all contradictions have
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cessation or are warded off. Entering it, he realises 'sunyata' and realising it, he removes all snares of deviation.
The practitioner of wisdom Cprajfia ') coupled with means Cupayaya ') becomes totally proficient in 'samvriti' (the apparent) and 'paramartha' (the ultimate) truths. So by attaining knowledge bereft of superimpositions, he attains all 'Buddha-Dharmas'. Therefore, without 'bhuta ' analysis, there is neither the dawn of true knowledge nor the removal of "klesa ' cover. It is said in Manjusri Vikurvata-sutra;
"0 Darika! 48how does a bodhisattva become the victor in the battle'? (Reply) '0 Manjusril by not coming across any 'dharmas' after repeated examination". Hence the yogi, with his eye of knowledge wide open and after totally overcoming his 'klesa' foes with the weapon of 'prajna ' wanders about without fear un-like a frightened coward with eyes closed. It is said in Arya Samadhiraja-sutra also: "If one examines non- self 'dharrnas' and, examining them, meditates, it becomes a cause for the attainment of 'nirvana' fruit; any other cause ('hetu ') brings not peace. " Sutra-sammuchaya also says; "Himself engaged in the practice of 'vipasyana', if one does not help others engage themselves in 'vipasyana', it (i. e. his own practice) becomes an evil act. "
'Vipasyana' is of the nature of 'bhuta ' analysis; this has been stated in Arya Ratna-megha and Sandhinirmochana etc. Says Arya Ratnamegha; "The knowledge of the non-true existence of things Cnissvabhavata ') through analysis with insight Cvipasyana ') is termed as entering the' nirnirnitta '. " Arya Lankavatara also says; "0 wise one! the 'bhavas' when examined by the intellect do not yield any 'jfiana' about their individual and general characteristics. That is why it has been said that all 'dharmas' are non-existent. If 'bhuta'- examination is not done, it will lead to a refutation of the many kinds of analytical methods suggested in the 'sutras' by the lord. As such it would be proper to say that we, of little intellect and less courage, are incapable of (understanding) erudite ('bahusruti')49 analysis. The lord had praised erudition a lot; therefore, it is never appropriate to refute it. "
It has been said in Punarbrahma-pariprichha: "Those who get engaged in thinking over un-thinkable 'dharrnas', experience perversion of thought Cayonisa'j. ? ' Also, those who imagine as created 'dharmas' which are uncreated in the ultimate sense and regard them as transient and full of suffering as 'sravakas' do, get into the 'ayonisa ' (perversion) state owing to their thinking being bereft of (the two factors of) "samaropa ' (superimposition) and 'apavada' (contradiction)", (that is, because they do not consider the two factors).
Whatever has been said in refutation of such tendencies is not a refutation of (the desirability of) 'bhuta'-analysis which has been recommended by all the's utras '. Brahma- pariprichha-sutra itself says; "Chitta-sura (valiant of mind) bodhisattva has said that he who thinks over all dharmas with the mind and remains uncovered and untouched by them is called a 'bodhisattva' as such. " Again it says': "How do they (i. e. the bodhisattvas) become valorous? Well, when they do not find the 'sarvajfiata' mind while looking for it, they alone will become wise who examine abstract Cyonisa '), 'dharrnas':
,they categorise 'dharmas' as illusion Crnaya') and mirage (' marichi'). "
It should be known that whenever the din of words like 'achintya ' (unthinkable) etc. is heard, it is meant for pro- pounding the analysis of the core entity (' pratyatrna- vedaniyata ') of 'dharmas' for the refutation of the ego of such people as believed in the realisation of the reality (' tattva ') only through hearing and deliberating it; it also refutes 'ayonisa ' of the mind (Le. the mind's adherence to wrong, pervert 'dharmas'), It certainly does not mean a refutation of 'bhuta' examination; otherwise, as already stated, it would mean a contradiction of various arguments ('yukti') and scriptures C'agama'). Whatever knowledge is gained through 'prajfia' born of hearing and thinking should be contemplated upon through meditational wisdom and nothing else. A horse runs (well) on its familiar race-course, so 'bhuta ' examination or 'the analysis of all phenomena' must be practised. Although it may (turn out to) be of an opposite nature but,
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owing to its being of the quality of correct mentalisation ('yoniSa manasikara '), it generates undifferentiated ('nirvikalpik') 'jfiana'. With this belief, he who is desirous of such 'jriana' should practise this (examination of 'bhutas'), Arya Ratna-kuta says that with the generation of the fire of right 'nirvikalpa jfiana', it will burn itself away in that fire like two faggots burning themselves out in the fire generated by their own rubbing (' gharsana') together.
It is (sometimes) said that no 'kusala' (meritorious) acts etc. need be done as the exhaustion of 'karma' leads to liberation. Well, such a belief will (only) lead to 'ajivaka- vada">' That the exhaustion of 'karma' leads to liberation has not been propounded in the Lord's word. How then? (i. e, how can 'rnukti' or release come about)? Well, through the cessation of 'klesas' (mental defilements). It is not possible to exhaust action ('karma') (already) performed since eternity, because they are innumerable. While suffering the fruit of such actions during lower births, more karmas are generated. The non-cessation of 'klesas' makes them the cause of the non-cessation of 'karma' just as the light of a lamp will not cease without the lamp being put out. It has already been stated that the cessation of 'klesas' is impossible for one who denies 'vipasyana' (insight). If it is agreed that the practice of 'vipasyana' is essential for the cessation of 'klesas', 'klesa ' cessation itself will give liberation and the labour for the exhaustion of 'karma' will become meaningless. To say that non-meritorious (a-kusala) action should not be performed is appropriate. Why "kusal karma' is refuted is that if its performance generates 'samsara', it is not proper. And, only those 'kusala' acts' are 'samsara' prone which are born of all the contrarities of 'self' etc. and (certainly) not the actions of boddhisattvas which are born of great compassion Cmahakaruna') and their dedication of 'punya' (parinamita) through transcendental enlightenment. So it has been indicated about the 'parinamana' (dedication) of these very ten 'kusala dharmas' as (acts of) extreme purification in the 'sadhana' (practice) of the' sravakas', the' pratyeka-buddhas' ,
the 'bodhisattvas' and the Buddhas. Arya Rantnakuta also states; "Like the collection of water from all the great rivers into the great ocean, the root-merits Ckusala-mula') collected by the bodhisattvas through various means, after being transformed into 'sarvajfiata ' become one taste (i. e. equanimity) in (that) omniscence (which reveals the true nature of things). "
The wealth that the Buddhas and the bodhisattvas earn in the shape of (their) physical form Crupa-kaya '), field- purification C' ksetra-parisuddhi '),52 aura (prabha), 53 proliferation Cparivara ')," full happiness Cmahabhoga T" etc. is the fruit of the accumulation of 'punya'; so has it been mentioned here and there in the siitras by the Lord; these too will get negated. The refutation of 'kusala ' conduct also means? the refutation of the vow of emancipation Cpratimoksa sarnvaraj" etc. Thus his (i. e. the yogi's) shorn head and begging bowl ete. will be of no avail; when 'kusala ' action becomes indifferent totpurification' Cabhisamskara') it will lead to indifference towards 'samsara ' and towards actions for the sake of 'sattvas'. In consequence, it will also make 'bodhi' (enlightenment) a distant thing. It has been said in Arya-sandhi-nirmochana; "I have not spoken of supreme true enlightenment for those who totally turn away from actions for 'sattvas' and from the rectification of 'samskaras. " Arya Upali-pariprichha also says. "To be indifferent towards 'samsara ' constitutes great misconduct for 'bodhisattvas'. Accepting 'samsara ' is supreme good conduct. " Arya- Vimala-kirti-nirdesa also states: going into samsara with 'upayaya ' is release for boddhisattvas. 'Prajfia ' without 'upayaya' is shackling, 'upayaya ' with 'prajfia ' is release; 'prajfia' with 'upayaya' is release. " Arya Gaganaganja says, "1;0 be averse towards 'samsara' is evil karma for bodhisattvas. " Also said in Sutra-sammuchaya, "Even 'asarnskrita dharmas' are to be analysed and to be averse to 'samskrita dharmas' is evil 'karma'. " If he knows the 'bodhi'<path but does not investigate the way of Perfections (' parrnita-yana '), it is tantamount to doing 'mara-karma ' (evil 'karma'). It is again
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95
said therein; "From fixation of the mind in 'dana ' etc. to
fixation of the mind in 'prajfia' is evil karma (' mara karma'). " . Now in this assertion there is no forbidding of practising
'dana' etc. but what has been forbidden is the addiction of the mind to the ego and I-ism, in the concept of the 'grahya' (the object to be achieved) and "grahaka ' (the person who receives or achieves) - that is, the received and the receiver, contrary fixation in the donor's? charity Cdana '). 'Dana' etc. dependent on contrary fixation is impure, 'mara karma'. Otherwise, 'dhyana ' etc. will also not be worth practising, how will, then, release come about?
Whatever 'dana' etc. is given because of or by keeping in view the variety of 'sattvas' by the donor ('aupalam-bhika') is impure. Arya Gaganaganja propounds it thus: '''dana' etc. which indicate differentiation among beings Csattvas') are the acts of the devil Cmara karma')". So it has been stated in Tri- skandha-parinamana. '''Dana'(giving), 'sila ' (conduct), 'ksanti ' (forbearance) 'veerya' (valour or effort), 'dhyana ' (meditation), 'prajria ' (wisdom), not aware of the' samata ' (equivalence) of all these by one who falls into obtainment (of 'dana' etc. ), for such a one I teach as to how to protect 'sila ' (character) from diseased" "sila ' or misconduct (born of) lapses" in 'dana ' and 'ksanti-bhavana ' (contemplation of forbearance) from the nomenclature of 'I' (sva) and 'other' ('para') etc. " Here too such giving (dana) etc. which rises above the contrarities of differentiation Cnanatva'), becomes purified for the giver ('aupalam-bhika'); so has it been propounded and not the forbidding of 'dana ' etc. in toto; otherwise, 'dana' etc. would have been wholly commended as such, and its descending into contrary obtainment would not have found mention: It has been said in Brahma- pariprichha also: "all conduct Ccharya ') is 'parikalpita-v" (based on factor or causes) ; 'bodhi alone is without 'hetu' or 'pratyaya ' (nisparikalpa). "! " Owing to the varying nature of practices for the generation of 'bodhi' (enlightenment), even 'bodhi' is (sometimes) mentioned as 'parikalpita' (created or fashioned). What has been propounded here is that to stay in
a state of effortless abstraction is the explanation= of the bodhisattva alone and none else's. W;hat has been said is about the uncreatedness of 'dana ' etc. in the ultimate sense and not that no practice (of it) should be performed.
The Buddhas who were honoured by the Lord in Dipankara= - avadana and whose names could not be enu- merated in an aeon ('kalpa') (by the lord) were never forbidden from any practice (' charya ') during their bodhi- sattva period. Dipankara also did not refute any of the lord's 'charyas' However, when he (i. e bodhisattva Dipankara) was noticed, in the state of 'santa animitta-vihara ' ( a state of absolute equipoise and tranquillity) during the eighth 'bhurni', he expounded this (teaching) but there also he did not forbid its practice. The bodhisattva's supreme revelling in the 'animitta'v' during the eighth 'bhumi' has been forbidden
'by the Buddhas in Dasabhumisvara 'lest they may attain their 'nirvana' here itself'. If no 'charya ' (practice) is to be performed at all, it would negate all that has been said earlier (about the bodhisattva's charya),
Again, Brahma-pariprichha says: "He gives in charity but does not desire its fruit; he guards his 'sila ' but it is never superimposed. " "0 Brahma! become non-returning Cavaivartika ')'? in Buddha dharmas when equipped with four 'dharmas'. " What four?
Accepting the unlimited 'samsara ', veneration and worship of limitless Buddhas etc. will stand against anything. It is proper to say that practice should be done neither with mild senses ('mridu indriya'j'" nor with sharp senses Ctiksana indriya. ')" alone, for in this way, for the bodhisattvas established in the first stage to the tenth, the 'charya' (practice) of 'dana' etc. is generated nor does he roam'" not in the residual appendices. ? ' thus has it been said. It is improper to say that one who has entered the 'bhumi' is of 'soft senses'. As has been stated in Arya Upali- pariprichha; "Only he who is established in the non- generating Idharma-ksanti' should practise renunciation C'tyaga'),7? great renunciation (rna hatya ga )? ' and total renunciation Cati-tyaga'j. ? " Sutra samuchaya also says: 'the
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Kasiraja (the king of Kasi) to be a fool (lit. of tainted wisdom) who gave away pieces of his flesh to the falcon in lieu of that of the pigeon? 'No Lord' replied Maitreya. The Lord continued, '0 Maitreya! Whatever 'kusal-rnulas' (root-merits) equipped with six perfections were earned by me while practising the conduct of the bodhisattvas, did they do any harm to me? 'No lord! ' replied Maitreya. The lord said, '0 Ajita! ' you also practised perfect 'dana' paramita (the perfection of giving) for sixty aeons C'kalpas') and equally practised 'prajna- paramita ' (the perfection of Wisdom) for sixty 'kalpas'. Even then, these ignorant persons will say that a single path like that of 'sunyata alone will lead to enlightenment (bodhi). Such a person will become impure of conduct Ccharya') or practice. " While practising 'sunyata ' alone they will enter into the 'sravaka ' s ' 'nirvana'. Therefore, 'prajfia must be practised with 'u pa ya ya' .
Acharya Nagarjunapada says in Sutra-sammuchaya, bodhisattva should not practise serious dharmas without the skill of means Cupayaya '). " Herein, the acharya has expounded what he got from sources like Arya Vimalakirti- nirdesa etc. and not that these are the words of Acharya Nagarjunapada (himself). It is not proper for learned observors to forsake the Lord's words which comprise scriptures Cagama') and logic ('yukti') and accept the words of ignorant fools. It is said in Arya Ratna-kuta: "Sunyata which comprises the blessing of omnipotence and is accompanied by such 'kusalas ' (merits) as giving Cdana ') etc. should be meditated upon as such. " And again; "0 Kasyapal just as the king performs all his functions with the assistance of his minister, so also does the "prajfia ' of the bodhisattvas
equipped with the skill of 'upayaya ' perform all the tasks of lord Buddha. "
He who practises 'sunyata' only will not have entry into 'nirvana'. The lord has said in Arya Tathagata-guhya surra, "One should not practise' ekanta-nirlambana-chitta', i. e. the solitary propless mind; skill in means Cupayaya') should also be practised. " To illustrate this, it is added, "0 Kulaputra! just
bodhisattva, equipped with the attainment of the six perfections, functions through the 'riddhi' (special power) of Tathagata. There is nothing speedier than the speed of Tathagata's power. And, for the boddhisattvas, there is no path speedier than that of the six perfections, and the ten 'bhumis'. " The sutra says that mental generation (i. e. tendencies) is refined gradually like the refining of gold . . Arya Lankavatara and Dasa-bhurnisvara also state: "When the bodhisattva gets established in 'tathata ' he enters the first 'bhumi'. After that, step by step, he enters the 'Tathagata bhumi, after refining the preceding 'bhumis'. Therefore, there is no other gateway than that of 'bhumis' and 'paramitas ' (perfections) to simultaneously enter the city of Buddha. "
It is improper to say that as all the Six Perfections come within the ambit of 'dhyana' and that all of them are fulfilled by its practice, so other perfections like dana etc. need not be practised. If it were so then, owing to the six perfections coming within the ambit of Lord Buddha's (gomaya- mandala)" only mandala," should be' practised and not "dhyana ' etc. Even a . sravaka ' who has entered the absorption C'sama patti ') of 'nirodha' -samadhi" will be deemed to have attained the fulfilment of the six perfections through the non-recurrence C'a-sarnudachara ') of the objective ('nimitta') etc. In that case there will be nothing to proclaim the contrast between the "sravaka ' and the bodhisattva. The bodhisattvas must practise the six perfections under all circumstances. In order to substantiate it, the lord has shown the presence of all other 'pararnitas' (perfection) in every single "paramita '. It is said in Sarvadharma-vaipulya; "0 Maitreya! about this acquisition of the six perfections which has been spoken of for the enlightenment of bodhisattvas, the ignorant persons would say that the bodhisattvas should be well instructed in the perfection of wisdom Cprajfia-paramita') alone, of what avail is his interest in other 'pararnitas'? They regard the other "pararnitas as 'stained'. Then, 0 Ajita! do you take that
" A
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99
as fire burns only with its requisite material Cupadana') and is quietened in its absence, so also the mind is fired by its prop Calambana') and becomes quietened in its absence. The bodhisattva, with his "prajna-paramita ' (perfection of wisdom) honed and equipped with the skill of 'upayaya ' knows how to calm down 'alambana' but will not calm down the one with benificent roots. In him no 'klesalambana' (the prop of mental defilements) arises but he is established in the 'prop of perfection' Cparamita-alambana ') instead. He examines the 'alambana' of 'sunyata ' but will look to 'rnahakaruna ' (great compassion) as the 'alambana' for all sattvas. In this way, '0 Kulaputra! the bodhisattva attains the mastery of 'alarnbana' with his refined perfection of 'prajna'(wisdom) and the skill of 'upayaya ' (means). " So saying in detail, he further amplifies; "The bodhisattva has no such 'alambana' as is not meant for the accumulation of the knowledge of the reality of things, that is, Buddhas 'jnana' The bodhisattva, all whose 'alambanas' get transformed into supreme enlightenment, alone is skilful in 'upayaya ' and such a one sees all 'dharmas' as embracing 'bodhi'. Even then, 0 Kulaputra! there is nothing in the three thousand or many thousands of' loka-dhatus' (wordly components) which is not meant for the 'sattvas' enjoyment. 0 Kulaputra' there is no such 'alambana' which the skilful-in-effort bodhisattva does not consider useful for his enlightenment. " Thus said at length. In this manner, the acquisition of wisdom Cprajna') and means Cupayaya') by bodhisattvas has been indicated in an unlimited number of sutras. If he himself cannot start the valorous effort of accumulating 'punya' collection through 'dana' etc. it is not proper for him to preach it to others as that would be tantamount to deceiving both himself and others.
It has been propounded in the 'yukti' (literature of logic) and 'agama' (scripture) that the bodhisattvas, after 'bhuta- examination' should make a collection of such 'punya' accumulations as 'dana' etc. So the wise ones have said that one should forsake like poison the words of egotistical, half- read persons and act in accordance with the nectar like words
of such learned scholars as Acharya Nagarjuna and others by generating mahakaruna for all 'rnahasattvas ' remain ing unattached as a magician and should endeavour to uplift the whole world through the transformation of all beneficient practices like 'dana ' etc. into 'anuttra-samyaka-sambodhi' (transcendental, supreme enlightenment). It has been said in Arya Dharma-samgiti, "Just as a magician endeavours to undo his own creation and being already aware of its illusionary aspect, is unattached to it, so also the bodhisattva, conscious of illusionary nature of the three states of existence Ctribhava ') past, present and future and having attained perfect enlightenment is ready (to do his duty) towards the world because he already knows its reality. "
In this way, he who constantly practises 'prajfia ' and 'upayaya ' with reverence, his mental emanations having gradually matured, more and more of extremely pure 'ksana'" is generated for him. His meditation on the meaning of things having attained excellence, he becomes aware of the extremely clear' dharma dhatu " ? (the true essence of things) devoid of all fictionality Ckalpana-jala '). He attains transcendental knowledge as clear as the calm, windless lamp. He then achieves the 'alambana ' of the ultimate of things and enters the 'darasana marga '. He attains the first 'bhumi' (stage). After refining the succeeding stages one after another and removing all accumulated' avarnas ' like
(refining) gold, attains unattached and unassailable 'jfiana ' and reaches 'Buddha bhumi' (the stage of Buddhahood), the foundation of all virtue; also he obtains 'alambana ' in the shape of the fulfilment of his work. Therefore, those who desire 'Buddha-hood ' should endeavour to tread the Middle Path.
Mayall people attain the Middle path as the result of whatever 'punya' (merit) I may have earned by indicating the 'madhya marga' (middle path) in this way.
Good people, after removing the dirt of jealousy ere. remain insatiate, like the ocean with its waters and, after good examination, continue accepting good words just as the
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(royal) swan gladly weans milk from water.
Hence, the learned people, after overcoming the
prejudices of their minds, should accept good words from even the ignorant.
Here ends the final Bhavanakrama composed by Acharya Kamalasila.
GLOSSARY - I
1. Bhavanakrarna - 'bhavana ' is meditation; it consists of visualisation and contemplation of a resolve, an object or an idea and strictly meditating on it in accordance with vows undertaken; the sequence of meditational process. For example, 'rna itri', 'karuna', 'rnudita ' and 'upeksa' are the four exalted states of the mind. Also called 'brahrna-vihara ' the 'bhavana ' of these four leads the practitioner to 'sarnyaka' pratipatti or true realisation, his mental defilements having evaporated.
2. 'adfkarmika ' - a novice initiate who wishes to pursue the bodhisattva path, of the four-fold tantra quadrangle in Mahayana- krtya-tantra, charya-tantra, yog-tantra and anuttar~tantra - krryatantra's standard text is Adikarma-pradeep which deals with the rules of initiation and subsequent conduct as prescribed for an 'adlkarmik bodhisattva'
3. sarvajfiata - the knowledge of the true nature of all phenomena, that is, 'nissvabhavata'.
4. karuna - compassion.
5. bodhichitta - enlightened mind.
6. pratipatti - perception, comprehension.
7. dharmah - disciplines, instructions, practices.
8. bhadanta - an honorific for a realised monk.
9. purvangama - that which goes ahead of a thing; precursor, fore-
runner.
10. as at 9 above.
11. adhisthana - object of contemplation, focal idea to reflect on. 12. sarnbhara - accumulation, collection.
13. trividha dukha - three-fold suffering of body, mind and speech. 14. traidhatuka - beings living in the three worlds of humans, gods
and hell dwellers, the earth, the heavens, the hells.
15. pretas - disembodied spirits, 'preta-loka' is one of the six realms
of existence after death.
16. tiryaka - another realm of existence where one is born as a
dragging, crawling beast.
17. samadhana-chetsa - of composed mind.
18. pra~ma - tranquillity.
19. anusaya - impurity generated by feelings of attachment, lust etc. 20. karnavachara - one who always wanders in the realm of desire or
kama; it is also equated with, 'deva-loka ' by some as the gods
always dwell in 'kama'.
21. defilements born of actions. 22. suffering born of sarnskaras.
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GLOSSARY-! 103
23. chitta-samata - a mental attitude of total equality for all beings; it is achieved through the practice of 'paratma-sarnata ' or by exchanging your own self with others.
24. sama-pravritta - equitably disposed towards all; equal concern . .
25. nispanna - complete, full, equanimous.
26. bodhichitta - a mind that aspires after bodhi or the enlightenment
of a bodhisattva.
27. prarthnakararn - importunate, solicitous.
28. samyaka-sambodhi - the ultimate or correct knowledge of reality;
true cognition of 'bhuta-tathata'.
29. par-sarnadapana - acquiring by others.
30. pratipatti - attainment of supreme knowledge.
31. vajra-ratna - adamantine gem; supreme, impenetrable substance.
32. chittotapada - generating the mind, inducing it towards
'sarvajfiata ' .
33. gut:tas- qualities.
34. sravaka - lit. hearer.
35. pratyeka-buddha - lit. solitary realiser.
36. paramita - perfection
37. upayaya - means, practice.
38. dana-pararnita - perfection of giving.
39. parjfia-pararnita - perfection of wisdom.
40. pranidhi - vow, fixing the mind with determination.
41. kusala-rnula - practices that lead to meritorious action, root-merit.
42. anumodana - commending.
43. sadharanani - common, ordinary.
44. Buddha-dharma - pratices enjoined on a bodhisattva.
45. bodhi-sarnbhara - accumulation of the attributes of
enlightenment.
46. vipaka - fruit, result in maturation of actions done.
47. akasa-dhatu - the element of space or sky.
48. buddha-ksetrani - Buddha-fields, believed to be two dozen in
number; the Mahayana concept of the presence of more than one Buddha simultaneously presiding in their own 'lokas' or worlds, their' ksetras' (fields) like the sukha-vati-vyuha of Amitabha Buddha.
49.
