Question 91: HOW CAN WE MAINTAIN UNWAVERING DILIGENCE IN OUR SPIRITUAL PRACTICE AND AVOID LAZINESS AND INCONSISTENCY?Answer: Each day, we should pay our respects to the Buddha and make a commitment to practice diligently and consistently. We can plead with the Buddha to bless us with boundless diligence. By maintaining this practice for many years, we will develop a strong and steadfast practice. However, this diligence is also supported by several other virtues:- Absolutely profound obeisance for the Buddha- Always ready to assist others when they need it, without making excuses- Persistently willing to take on difficult tasks to lighten the burden for others- Consistently motivating and inspiring others to persevere in their practice and good deeds- Steadily nurturing deep, vast, and enduring compassion- Sustainably maintaining unwavering loyalty and never betraying others.Those who possess boundless diligence and overcome numerous obstacles will find that their words carry great persuasive power due to an inexplicable, invisible force.#Buddha, #Buddhism, #Buddhist, #Truedharma, #Meditation, #Enlightenment, #Buddhatemple, #TheLawofKarma, #Blessing, #Goodblessing, #Janna, #JannaMonastery, #JannaOrderMonastery, #LawOfKarma, #CauseAndEffect, #UniversalTruth, #KarmicRetribution, #AxiomaticTruth, #PhilosophyOfMind,

Question 90: WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE PRINCIPAL AND TECHNICAL ASPECTS OF MEDITATION PRACTICE?Answer: Meditation practice encompasses both principal and technical aspects.Principal aspect: We engage in part of this aspect when we deliberately contemplate concepts to cultivate mindfulness. This might include reflecting on life's impermanence, the illusory nature of the self, or the flawed nature of the body and mind, etc. Technical aspect: We engage in part of this aspect when we subtly keep our breath Slow–Little–Gentle, and focus our attention on particular areas like the chest, abdomen, or lower abdomen.By integrating both principal and technical aspects, along with the invisible merit, we aim to develop and maintain mindfulness, ultimately leading to true concentration.Typically, beginners often rely on contemplative means to stimulate mindfulness, while more experienced practitioners (solely) use them to maintain a calm state. However, even when the mind is tranquil, it's crucial to continue reflecting on our ‘deep-seated ignorance and impurities’ to counteract pride.#Buddha, #Buddhism, #Buddhist, #Truedharma, #Meditation, #Enlightenment, #Buddhatemple, #TheLawofKarma, #Blessing, #Goodblessing, #Janna, #JannaMonastery, #JannaOrderMonastery, #LawOfKarma, #CauseAndEffect, #UniversalTruth, #KarmicRetribution, #AxiomaticTruth, #PhilosophyOfMind,

Question 89: WHAT SHOULD WE DO WHEN WE FEEL DROWSY DURING MEDITATION?Answer: Feeling drowsy or sleepy during initial meditation sessions is quite common. This can significantly reduce the quality of our practice, and overcoming it requires considerable effort.Drowsiness can be attributed to one of two reasons:- Lack of sleep: If we're not getting enough rest, our brain may demand sleep during meditation to meet its required quota. This can be resolved by ensuring we get adequate sleep. As our meditation practice progresses, we may find that we need less sleep overall.- Past negative karma: Drowsiness during meditation could result from negative karma accumulated in past lives, acting as an obstacle to our practice. In such cases, the only solution is to practice deep repentance and seek forgiveness from the Buddha.To determine the root cause of our drowsiness, we must carefully observe our own sensations. Once we identify the cause, we can take appropriate action. If we suspect our drowsiness is due to negative karma, we should make a conscious effort to resist sleep during meditation and practice perpetual repentance and deferential bows to the Buddha.#Buddha, #Buddhism, #Buddhist, #Truedharma, #Meditation, #Enlightenment, #Buddhatemple, #TheLawofKarma, #Blessing, #Goodblessing, #Janna, #JannaMonastery, #JannaOrderMonastery, #LawOfKarma, #CauseAndEffect, #UniversalTruth, #KarmicRetribution, #AxiomaticTruth, #PhilosophyOfMind,

Question 88: WHAT SHOULD WE DO IF WE FIND OURSELVES SLOUCHING WHILE MEDITATING?Answer: If we find ourselves slouching during meditation, it's a sign that our internal energy is weak. Forcing ourselves to straighten up won't solve the problem; we'll likely slouch again soon and find it difficult to sit for extended periods. When we notice we're slouching, we should shift our attention to the triangular tailbone at the base of our spine. This will naturally cause internal energy to rise, straightening our back without any conscious effort. Once our posture is stable, we can return to our usual meditation practice, focusing on the lower abdomen and maintaining slow, little and gentle breathing.The sacrum* is a remarkable part of the body. It subtly governs all other bones and serves as a source of internal energy when we focus our mind on it. Whenever we feel tired or weak, we can simply sit quietly, concentrate on the sacrum, and breathe smoothly. This practice will soon leave us feeling refreshed.(*) The sacrum is a wedge-shaped triangular bone located at the base of the vertebral column, above the caudal (tail) vertebrae or coccyx. It articulates with the pelvic girdle and is typically composed of five fused vertebrae in humans, which merge in early adulthood.Citation: https://www.britannica.com/science/sacrum#Buddha, #Buddhism, #Buddhist, #Truedharma, #Meditation, #Enlightenment, #Buddhatemple, #TheLawofKarma, #Blessing, #Goodblessing, #Janna, #JannaMonastery, #JannaOrderMonastery, #LawOfKarma, #CauseAndEffect, #UniversalTruth, #KarmicRetribution, #AxiomaticTruth, #PhilosophyOfMind,

Question 87: WHY DO SOME MEDITATION MASTERS EXPRESS CONTEMPT FOR THE BUDDHA, WHEN THEY SHOULD RESPECT THE BUDDHA MORE THAN ORDINARY PEOPLE?Answer: This phenomenon is a side effect that can occur when individuals achieve certain results in meditation. Historically, the ancient Venerable Arahants held the Buddha in the highest regard and would not dare to move while in His presence. However, some meditation masters have been misunderstood. As their minds become purified, they may develop an inflated sense of self-importance, believing they have attained enlightenment equal to the Buddha's. This can lead them to express arrogance and disrespect. Such prideful words can diminish the merit of other beings and weaken the Dharma.This issue stems from a lack of proper guidance regarding the absolute respect that should be shown to the Buddha. When people make progress in meditation, they may unfortunately develop a rebellious attitude. True freedom is not about disrespecting the Buddha but about being liberated from afflictions when faced with adversity or temptation.In the Anguttara Nikaya, the Buddha taught that loyalty is a great virtue. As one properly progresses on the spiritual path, they should become more perfectly virtuous and loyal. Those who achieve results in meditation should feel eternal gratitude toward the Buddha. This attitude will prevent us from falling into wrong views. Individuals who attain the First Stage of Snlightenment (or First Level of Sainthood) which is known as Stream-entry (Sotapanna) develop the utmost respect for the Buddha and are assured of eventually attaining the Fourth Stage of Enlightenment aka Full Enlightenment (Arahant).In conclusion, regardless of one's progress, it is essential to maintain unwavering respect for the Buddha throughout countless lifetimes.#Buddha, #Buddhism, #Buddhist, #Truedharma, #Meditation, #Enlightenment, #Buddhatemple, #TheLawofKarma, #Blessing, #Goodblessing, #Janna, #JannaMonastery, #JannaOrderMonastery, #LawOfKarma, #CauseAndEffect, #UniversalTruth, #KarmicRetribution, #AxiomaticTruth, #PhilosophyOfMind,

Question 86: WHEN THE MIND BECOMES CALM AND ENTERS A MEDITATIVE STATE, DOES IT MEAN THERE'S NOTHING LEFT TO THINK ABOUT OR PERCEIVE?Answer: It's a common misconception that when the mind becomes mindful and calm during meditation, it becomes completely empty, devoid of thoughts or perceptions. In reality, the opposite is true. As one progresses in meditation, numerous new states of consciousness emerge, often inspiring practitioners to express their experiences through poetry and profound discussions. This initial eagerness to share one's experiences is typically a sign of immaturity. With time, practitioners tend to become more reserved and cautious about discussing their experiences.Meditation unveils a new realm of wisdom that can feel paradoxically empty yet full of wonder. This newfound insight often relates to philosophical, psychological, and principal concepts, which practitioners can articulate eloquently when prompted. If a practitioner develops psychic abilities, they may encounter even more extraordinary phenomena.However, without a strong emphasis on the concept of Non-self, practitioners may develop a meditation sickness characterized by an overwhelming urge to talk, which can potentially lead to mental health issues. Therefore, it's crucial for practitioners to cultivate the most thorough humility virtue to counterbalance any excessive excitement and maintain a composed demeanor as they progress on their spiritual journey.#Buddha, #Buddhism, #Buddhist, #Truedharma, #Meditation, #Enlightenment, #Buddhatemple, #TheLawofKarma, #Blessing, #Goodblessing, #Janna, #JannaMonastery, #JannaOrderMonastery, #LawOfKarma, #CauseAndEffect, #UniversalTruth, #KarmicRetribution, #AxiomaticTruth, #PhilosophyOfMind,

Question 85: IS IT TRUE THAT PEOPLE WHO ACHIEVE A CALM MIND THROUGH MEDITATION WILL BECOME INDIFFERENT TO EVERYTHING IN LIFE?Answer: This is indeed a common side effect, so typical that practitioners often mistake it for the right path. When the mind becomes calm, individuals may lose interest in worldly affairs and view everything as illusory and detached.This state of indifference has both positive and negative aspects. On the positive side, it helps purify the practitioner's greed and attachment. However, it can also lead to an attitude of irresponsibility toward others.At this stage, it's crucial for practitioners to seek guidance from an experienced teacher with a correct comprehension. They should maintain the beneficial aspects of their practice such as letting go of attachment while developing compassion and a desire to help others.When actively contributing to society, even those with a strong meditative practice can be tempted by fame and recognition. Therefore, practitioners must remain vigilant. They should diligently serve others while maintaining a detached view of the world and avoiding any sense of pride or ownership in their good deeds.Many scriptures and commentaries emphasize the importance of, during contemplative stages, viewing everything as illusory and turning their back on everyone. This can lead people to become disillusioned with the world and ultimately contribute to the decline of Buddhism. Buddhists have to accumulate merit to strengthen the Dharma. Thus, Buddhists have to be even more dedicated to serving others than those who are not familiar with the teachings.#Buddha, #Buddhism, #Buddhist, #Truedharma, #Meditation, #Enlightenment, #Buddhatemple, #TheLawofKarma, #Blessing, #Goodblessing, #Janna, #JannaMonastery, #JannaOrderMonastery, #LawOfKarma, #CauseAndEffect, #UniversalTruth, #KarmicRetribution, #AxiomaticTruth, #PhilosophyOfMind,

Question 84: WHAT IS A NEGATIVE TRAIT, AND CAN MEDITATION ELIMINATE IT?Answer: A negative trait is an unwholesome inclination that resides within the mind, leading us to think, speak, and act negatively.There are three levels of negative traits: Habits (vāsanā), Hindrances (pañca nīvaraṇa), Fetters (saṃyojanāni).Habits are formed over many lifetimes through repeated actions and become almost immutable inclinations, such as swearing, indulging in delicious food, or being overly inquisitive about others' affairs, etc.Hindrances are negative traits created by wandering thoughts, similar to stains on a piece of cloth. The main hindrances are Greed, Anger, Doubt (uncertainty about one's practice), Drowsiness (sleepiness during meditation), and Restlessness (constant bodily fidget). These Hindrances disappear when one develops sustained mindfulness, just as stains on a cloth disappear when burned.Fetters are instincts deeply rooted in the Subconscious mind and are quite difficult to eradicate. Even meditative accomplishments can't completely eliminate them, but Sainthoods. There are numerous Fetters; generally speaking, there are ten main ones that practitioners must overcome on the path to absolute enlightenment, including Belief in a self (selfishness), Uncertainty (morality confusion), Attachment to rites and rituals (stubbornness on the trivial issues), Avarice, Outrage, Obsession with FormRealms, Obsession with Formless Realms, Sloth (laziness in creating merit), Conceit (looking down upon others), Ignorance (the last delusion).Practitioners must repent and seek protection from the Buddha to eliminate negative traits, as it is laborious to do so on one's own.#Buddha, #Buddhism, #Buddhist, #Truedharma, #Meditation, #Enlightenment, #Buddhatemple, #TheLawofKarma, #Blessing, #Goodblessing, #Janna, #JannaMonastery, #JannaOrderMonastery, #LawOfKarma, #CauseAndEffect, #UniversalTruth, #KarmicRetribution, #AxiomaticTruth, #PhilosophyOfMind,

Question 83: WHY DO SOME PEOPLE WHO HAVE ACHIEVED CERTAIN RESULTS IN MEDITATION EVENTUALLY DEVELOP AGE-RELATED ILLNESSES AND SUFFER GREATLY?Answer: When individuals achieve results in meditation, their minds become calm, clear, empty, peaceful, ecstatic, insightful, etc. At this point, they may feel no need to exert much effort and can simply dwell in this state, enjoying a carefree existence. Sometimes, they may even experience bursts of inspiration or a sense of tranquility. However, they often make three fundamental mistakes:- firstly, forgetting the ‘deeply-ingrained ignorance and mistakes’, they may forget that they have not yet attained full enlightenment and that even a clean house is still made of perishable materials, a calm mind is still that of an ordinary person.- secondly, neglecting virtuous actions, they may become less focused on helping others.- thirdly, disregarding the lower abdomen, by focusing their attention on the upper part of the body, they gradually lose their True Yin, leading to the weakening of their internal organs.Accomplished meditation masters have warned their disciples that the most dangerous period is when one begins to see results from their meditation practice. This is when various misconceptions may arise, accompanied by complacency, arrogance, negligence. When experiencing any success in meditation, practitioners have to bitterly repent to overcome these negative states of mind, such as arrogance, laziness, smugness, self-flattering, thought of being free from the Law of Karma, etc. They should also avoid focusing exclusively on the upper part of the body and instead cultivate the True Yin by focusing on the lower abdomen.#Buddha, #Buddhism, #Buddhist, #Truedharma, #Meditation, #Enlightenment, #Buddhatemple, #TheLawofKarma, #Blessing, #Goodblessing, #Janna, #JannaMonastery, #JannaOrderMonastery, #LawOfKarma, #CauseAndEffect, #UniversalTruth, #KarmicRetribution, #AxiomaticTruth, #PhilosophyOfMind,

Question 82: EVERYONE NEEDS TO WORK TO MAKE A LIVING. WORK CAN OFTEN BE STRESSFUL AND EXHAUSTING. HOW CAN WE MEDITATE WHILE WORKING, AS THE THEORY SUGGESTS?Answer: Only those who have reached an advanced level of meditation can maintain a calm mind while working. For most people, work is a major source of distraction.Some jobs are less onerous, allowing practitioners to maintain a degree of mindfulness of their body while working. This can help prevent the mind from wandering. Some practitioners find that using qigong breathing techniques while working with hands can reduce fatigue and keep their minds focused.However, for physically demanding or mentally taxing jobs, maintaining mindfulness can be tough. At the beginning, one might be able to focus on bodily sensations, but as fatigue sets in, the mind becomes absorbed in the task at hand.Jobs that require intense concentration, such as driving, accounting, or making critical decisions, demand our full attention. In these situations, we must prioritize our work responsibilities and may not even be able to meditate. However, if these tasks are morally beneficial, completing them with a sense of duty can lead to a state of calm and mindfulness afterward, almost as a reward.#Buddha, #Buddhism, #Buddhist, #Truedharma, #Meditation, #Enlightenment, #Buddhatemple, #TheLawofKarma, #Blessing, #Goodblessing, #Janna, #JannaMonastery, #JannaOrderMonastery, #LawOfKarma, #CauseAndEffect, #UniversalTruth, #KarmicRetribution, #AxiomaticTruth, #PhilosophyOfMind,