Clear or Muddy

Yutang Lin

Views propounded are so diverse; how to choose?
To accept or discard is up to individual judgment.
Reading it clears the mind, close to no attachment.
Full of opinionated views would add to confusion.

Comment:

There are many diverse writings on Buddhist teachings or claiming to be such; how should we choose? To accept or discard certain views is a matter of personal judgment; it varies with individual level of understanding and taste, and is also a matter of opportunity and past connections. It could not be forced. Yet there is a simple way to differentiate these writings. Just glance through it a bit to see if the reading clears the mind or adds to confusion. Writings that are in accordance with the teaching of non-self would help clear the mind. Writings that are obsessed with self-centered opinions could render the reader to become even more confused.

Written in Chinese on July 13, 2001
Translated on July 21, 2001
El Cerrito, California

---

[Home][Back to list][Back to Chinese versions]