(Continued from issue #303)
Lunchtime Instructional Talk by Dharma Master Heng Gwei on November 18, 2018,
at Gold Wheel Sagely Monastery Emperor Liang’s Jeweled Repentance Dharma Assembly
The repentance text states, “Contemplate the impermanence of the world. Physical forms do not last forever. The strength of youth will weaken. Do not be attached to appearances, do not defile ourselves with unwholesome conduct. All things are impermanent; all will meet its demise. In Heaven and on Earth, no one can stay forever.” This tells us that we must constantly be reminded and be mindful that everything is impermanent in this world.
“Physical forms do not last forever”. Our physical forms do not stay the same forever and will not remain in this Saha world forever. We do have a body, but this physical form is not staying unchanged forever. Starting from one year of age, our body changes every day. From youth to old age, our appearances change. This is impermanence. Hence, those who are now young and strong should not be attached to appearances. Do not be carried away by your current youth and vitality and think that “I am strong”! Be aware that our thoughts are constantly changing nonstop. Our appearance also grows older as we advance in years.
We should not “defile ourselves with unwholesome conduct”. Do not engage in debased actions. We should practice pure conduct and keep our bodies and mind clean and pure.
“All things are impermanent. All will meet its demise”. In this world, everything is impermanent, everything will one day be annihilated. When the Venerable Master was about to enter stillness, he told his disciples, “Do not be sad. This day will come for everyone.” I heard that there is an advertisement from a funeral home in Taiwan that says, “Eventually it will be your turn.” You see, the funeral home will for sure have your business. This day will come for everyone. But making good use of the time before our final day is of the utmost importance. When we leave this world, whether we can be reborn peacefully, or be in a state of frenzy, or experience unbearable pain, or be at ease from skill of self-mastery, will all depend on our current diligence.
All living beings treasure their lives and fear death. So, do not eat the flesh of living beings. Put ourselves in their shoes. We cherish our lives, and so do other living beings. Although humans are the most intelligent of all creatures, they are also the most stubborn.
(To be continued …)