When mind exists undisturbed in the Way, nothing in the world can offend, and when a thing can no longer offend it ceases to exist in the old way. When no discriminating thoughts arise, the old mind ceases to exist.
Interpretation
The quote suggests that inner peace prevents external disturbances and transforms perception.
This quote by Sengcan emphasizes the importance of achieving a calm and undisturbed state of mind. When one is truly centered and aligned with the 'Way,' external events or offenses lose their power, leading to a profound transformation in how the world is perceived. It encourages the idea that our reactions are shaped by our mental state, and by relinquishing discriminating thoughts, we can transcend the limitations of our old mindsets.
In practice
In a meditation seminar, this quote could be used to highlight the importance of inner peace.
One thing, all things: move among and intermingle, without distinction. To live in this realization is to be without anxiety about non-perfection. To live in this faith is the road to non-duality, because the non-dual is one with the trusting mind.
To live in the Great Way is neither easy nor difficult, but those with limited views are fearful and irresolute: the faster they hurry, the slower they go, and clinging cannot be limited: even to be attached to the idea of enlightenment is to go astray. Just let things be in their own way and there will be neither coming nor going. Obey the nature of things (your own nature), and you will walk freely and undisturbed.
Return to the root and you will find the meaning.
When thought is in bondage the truth is hidden, for everything is murky and unclear, and the burdensome practice of judging brings annoyance and weariness. What benefit can be derived from distinctions and separations?
The Great Way is not difficult for those who have no preferences.
Step aside from all thinking, and there is nowhere you can't go.
In the modern technoindustrial culture, it is possible to proceed from infancy into senility without ever knowing manhood.
People don't want other people to get high, because if you get high, you might see the falsity of the fabric of the society we live in.
Compassion is the keen awareness of the interdependence of all things.
I am a machine, condemned to devour them and then, throw them, in a changed form, on the dunghill of history.
Each generation must discover its mission, fulfill it or betray it, in relative opacity.
God is not upset that Gandhi was not a Christian, because God is not a Christian! All of God's children and their different faiths help us to realize the immensity of God.
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