Important Concepts to Be Mindful of Before Studying This Scripture

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 The following teachings emphasize the importance of faith and devotion, regardless of whether one worships the living Buddha (Tathagata) or the relics left behind after His passing into Nirvana:

Core Teachings:

  1. Tathagata and Relics

    • Tiṭṭhanta Tathagata: The living, visible Buddha.
    • Nibbuta Tathagata: The Buddha who has entered Nirvana and left only relics behind.

  2. Mind and Faith (Citta and Saddhā)

    • Citta: The mental attitude or intention.
    • Saddhā: Faith and devotion, which must remain unwavering and equal, whether directed toward the living Buddha or His relics.

  3. Equality of Merit (Phala)

    • When faith and intention are equal, the benefits (merit) derived from devotion are also equal.
    • This emphasizes the importance of maintaining consistent reverence, regardless of whether one is in the presence of the living Buddha or venerating His relics.

Key Story: The Faithful Nun

A teaching story illustrates this concept:

  • After the Buddha's passing, King Ajātasattu built stupas (pagodas) to house the Buddha’s relics. A devout nun set out to worship these relics with deep faith and adorned them with flowers.
  • On her way to the stupa, she was attacked by a raging bull and lost her life before reaching the stupa.
  • Despite this, her unwavering faith and intention earned her rebirth in the Tāvatimsa Heaven as a deity with a glorious celestial mansion.

This story highlights that faith and devotion, even in the absence of direct action or completion, yield immense spiritual rewards when the mind is pure and focused.

Practical Guidance:

  • Equal Reverence: Even though the living Buddha is no longer present, relics serve as representations of Him. Therefore, one should regard the relics with the same faith and devotion as one would the Buddha Himself.
  • Unified Faith: It is essential to cultivate a consistent and unwavering mental state of faith and devotion, regardless of whether one worships the living Buddha or relics.
  • Merit Through Intention: Actions born of sincere faith, even if incomplete or interrupted, bring about significant spiritual benefits.

Conclusion:

This scripture reminds devotees of the enduring value of faith and devotion. Even in the absence of a living Buddha, the proper attitude toward relics and representations ensures spiritual progress. By emphasizing equal reverence and pure intention, this teaching guides us to maintain unwavering faith and devotion throughout our spiritual journey.

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