Introduction:
Buddha nature, also known as the essence of mind or profound emptiness, is the inherent enlightened basis present in all sentient beings. It encompasses the boundless qualities of a perfectly enlightened Buddha, including knowledge-wisdom, love-compassion, and sheltering power. Although obscured by delusion and ego-clinging, the Buddha nature remains ever-present and unchanging. Through the practice of Dharma, beings can gradually reveal and embody these qualities.
The Ground of Buddha Nature:
The enlightened basis within all beings is often referred to as the ground. It is the primordial endowment of Buddha nature, where all enlightened qualities reside. From the tiniest insect to a fully awakened Buddha, every being possesses this unchanging essence. While delusion and karmic patterns may hide these qualities, they are never truly separate from the individual’s Buddha nature.
Unveiling the Buddha Nature:
The practice of Dharma enables the manifestation of enlightened qualities by gradually dispelling delusion, ego-clinging, obscurations, habitual patterns, and karma. As practitioners cultivate a virtuous mind, gather the two accumulations (conceptual merit and non-conceptual wisdom), and purify the two obscurations, the hidden enlightened qualities begin to emerge. The collapse of ego-clinging paves the way for the natural expression of wisdom and compassion.
The Path to Enlightenment:
Enlightenment becomes attainable because all beings possess the Buddha nature as their primordial potential. The practice of Dharma holds the key to unlocking this potential. Every being’s essential nature is wisdom and compassion, yet ignorance and ego-clinging veil this inherent wisdom. By aligning the mind with its true essence, practitioners can tap into their inherent wisdom and compassion.
The Inseparability of Qualities:
The qualities of wisdom, compassion, peace, and happiness are intrinsic to the Buddha nature. However, fixation and attachments obscure their manifestation. As beings let go of attachments and loosen fixations, the peaceful, blissful, and compassionate qualities of the Buddha nature naturally shine through. The pursuit of happiness is rooted in the innate happiness within Buddha nature, while the desire for peace arises from its inherent peacefulness. Unfortunately, beings often remain unaware of their true nature.
Conclusion:
Buddha nature, the enlightened essence present in all beings, encompasses infinite qualities such as wisdom, compassion, and power. Though obscured by delusion and ego-clinging, these qualities can be revealed through the practice of Dharma. By cultivating a virtuous mind, gathering the two accumulations, and purifying the obscurations, practitioners can uncover and manifest the inherent wisdom and compassion of their Buddha nature. Recognizing and realizing this potential is the path to enlightenment and liberation from suffering.
