If one definitively understands that all dharmas are fundamentally nonexistent and that there is nothing that can be attained, with no reliance and n… - Huangbo Xiyun

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If one definitively understands that all dharmas are fundamentally nonexistent and that there is nothing that can be attained, with no reliance and no abiding, no subject and no object, without activating false thoughts—this is to realize bodhi. And when one realizes enlightenment, this is only to realize the fundamental Buddha of the mind. To pass through eons of effort is nothing but useless cultivation. Just as when the warrior attained his pearl he merely attained the pearl that was originally on his forehead, and this had nothing to do with his ability to seek elsewhere. Therefore the Buddha has said, “I have truly not attained anything in the ultimate bodhi.”

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About Huangbo Xiyun

Huangbo Xiyun (Simplified Chinese: 黄檗希运; Traditional Chinese: 黄檗希運; pinyin: Huángbò Xīyùn; Wade-Giles: 'Huang-po Hsi-yün') (died 850) was an influential Chinese master of Chan Buddhism. He was born in Fujian, China in Tang Dynasty. Later he became a monk in Huangbo Shan (lit. Huangbo Mountain), after which he was named.

Also Known As

Alternative Names: Shi Xiyun Huangbo heshang Duanji chanshi Xiyun
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Additional quotes by Huangbo Xiyun

The essence of the mind is empty, and the myriad conditions are all serene. It is like the great orb of the sun climbing into space—the refulgent brilliance gleams in illumination, purity without a single speck of dust. The realization [of this mind] is without new or old, without shallow or deep. Its explanation depends neither on doctrinal understanding, on teachers, nor on opening up the doors and windows [of one’s house to let in students]. Right now, and that’s it! To activate thoughts is to go against it! Afterward, [you’ll realize] this is the fundamental Buddha.

Therefore, the bodhisattva’s mind is like space, which is completely detached from everything. “Past mental states are imperceptible”: this is detachment from the past. “Present mental states are imperceptible”: this is detachment from the present. “Future mental states are imperceptible”: this is detachment from the future. This is called complete detachment from the three periods of time.

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