The Ninetieth of 108 Gates Of Dharma Illumination

[Shokai]

90) The Ninetieth Gate; The diligence pāramitā

The diligence pāramitā is a gate of Dharma illumination; for [withit] we completely attain all good dharmas, and we teach and guide lazy living beings. (Nishijima/Cross)

The realization of making effort is a gate of realizing dharma; it attains all wholesome things and guides lazy sentient beings. (Tanahashi)

Gate Gatha:

May we, together with all buddhas;
Actualize the Diligence Paramita
That we may be a light unto all beings

Reflection Prompts:

1. How does the diligence pāramitā help us to completely attain all good dharmas

2. Comment on it also including the teaching of lazy living beings.

3. How would you rate the Capping Verse?

Capping Verse:

The gentlest of streams
Patiently
Shapes the hardest rocks

gassho, Shokai
stlah

[aprapti]

The gentlest of streams
Patiently
Shapes the hardest rocks


3. How would you rate the Capping Verse? drip.. drip.. drip..


aprapti


sat

[Shokai]

[Jishin]

1. The diligence pāramitā helps us to completely attain all good dharmas by encouraging us to cultivate unwavering determination and perseverance in our practice of the Buddhist path. Diligence is essential for making progress in any endeavor, and it is especially crucial in spiritual practice, where distractions and obstacles can be numerous. By developing the diligence pāramitā, we nurture the discipline and energy necessary to maintain our focus on the path and uphold our commitment to cultivating wisdom, compassion, and other virtuous qualities. This steadfast effort allows us to overcome hindrances, deepen our understanding of the Dharma, and ultimately attain enlightenment.

2. The teaching of lazy living beings is an important aspect of the diligence pāramitā. Through our own diligent practice, we can become a source of inspiration and guidance for those who may be struggling with laziness or complacency in their spiritual journeys. By embodying the diligence pāramitā and demonstrating the transformative effects of dedicated practice, we can motivate others to cultivate diligence in their own lives. Additionally, as we progress on the path, our increasing wisdom and compassion enable us to skillfully teach and guide others, helping them overcome their laziness and inspiring them to embark on their own journey toward enlightenment.


3. The Capping Verse:

The gentlest of streams
Patiently
Shapes the hardest rocks


This verse encapsulates the essence of the diligence pāramitā by using the metaphor of a gentle stream patiently shaping hard rocks. This image highlights the transformative power of consistent and persistent effort over time. Just as the steady flow of water can gradually reshape even the most resistant stone, the diligent practice of the Dharma can transform our minds and hearts, allowing us to overcome obstacles and progress toward enlightenment. The verse serves as a reminder of the importance of patience, perseverance, and commitment in our spiritual practice, as well as the profound impact that diligence can have on our lives and the lives of others.

Gassho, Jishin, ST, LAH

[Anchi]