Introduction:
Central to the teachings of Buddhism is the liberation from fixation and attachment, which are the fundamental roots of samsara. Through the accumulation of merit and wisdom, practitioners can loosen their habitual fixation on negativity and ultimately attain enlightenment. The process involves developing conceptual merit to transform negative patterns, leading to the arising of non-conceptual wisdom. This wisdom, in turn, unveils the true nature of the mind, the Buddha nature, by cutting through all fixation on samsara.
The Two Accumulations: Conceptual Merit and Non-Conceptual Wisdom
- Conceptual Merit:
Conceptual merit refers to the generation of powerful thoughts that help loosen fixations on samsara. By accumulating conceptual merit, practitioners can change negative patterns and habits into virtuous ones. This accumulation gradually eradicates fixation, allowing wisdom to arise and the recognition of Buddha nature. The practice of relative bodhicitta, guided by various methods taught in the Bodhisattva-caryavatara, facilitates the gathering of conceptual merit.
- Non-Conceptual Wisdom:
Non-conceptual wisdom is the direct realization of the Buddha nature, egolessness, and profound emptiness. It transcends thoughts and cuts through all fixations on samsara. This wisdom arises through the accumulation of non-conceptual wisdom, which involves recognizing and cultivating the nature of the mind. It goes beyond the limitations of conceptual thinking and leads to direct insight into the nature of reality.
The Unity of Merit and Wisdom:
To attain enlightenment, both the accumulations of merit and wisdom must be cultivated. The practice of relative bodhicitta enhances the accumulation of merit, while the practice of absolute bodhicitta deepens the accumulation of wisdom. By practicing the unity of merit and wisdom, a bodhisattva maintains the recognition of non-conceptual wisdom while engaging in other perfections. This unity enhances both practices and paves the way towards liberation.
Purifying the Two Obscurations:
In addition to accumulating merit and wisdom, practitioners must purify the two obscurations: the obscurations of afflictions and the obscurations of cognition. The accumulation of conceptual merit remedies the gross afflictions, while the accumulation of non-conceptual wisdom addresses the subtle levels of afflictions and cognitive obscurations. Purification of these obscurations is essential for attaining enlightenment.
The Path of Buddha Sakyamuni:
Buddha Sakyamuni himself practiced the accumulation of merit for an inconceivably long time, followed by the recognition of wisdom. By traversing the ten bodhisattva levels, he perfected both accumulations and eventually attained enlightenment. His journey illustrates the interconnectedness of merit and wisdom. Gathering great merit allows wisdom to dawn in the practitioner’s mind.
The Simultaneity of Purification, Accumulation, and Blessings:
The process of purifying obscurations, perfecting accumulations, and receiving the blessings of the guru occurs simultaneously. Purifying obscurations removes disruptive circumstances, while perfecting accumulations establishes harmonious conditions. The guru’s blessings catalyze this transformation, ripening the practitioner’s mind and facilitating the dawn of wisdom. These three aspects harmoniously lead to the practitioner’s progress on the path.
Practices for Beginners:
Beginners are encouraged to start with practices for gathering conceptual merit, such as going for refuge, developing relative bodhicitta, and engaging in visualization. Additionally, practicing the seven branches (prostrations, offerings, confession, rejoicing, requesting, supplicating, and dedicating) aids in generating conceptual merit. Simultaneously, beginners should receive teachings on recognizing Buddha nature from a qualified master, even though they may still be bound by dualistic thinking. This sets them on the path to wisdom practice.
Conclusion:
The two accumulations of merit and wisdom form the foundation of Buddhist practice, leading to liberation from fixation and the realization of Buddha nature. By accumulating conceptual merit, practitioners transform negative patterns and pave the way for the arising of non-conceptual wisdom. The unity of merit and wisdom, along with the purification of obscurations, is crucial for progressing on the path towards enlightenment. Ultimately, the simultaneous practice of purifying obscurations, perfecting accumulations, and receiving the blessings of the guru leads to the realization of wisdom and liberation from samsara.
