106) The one Hundred and sixth Gate; Attainment of realization of the Dharma of nonappearance
Attainment of realization of the Dharma of nonappearance* is a gate of Dharma illumination; for [with it] we attain affirmation. (Nishijima/Cross)
Attaining patience beyond birth is a gate of realizing dharma; it attains the prediction of enlightenment. (Tanahashi)
Gate Gatha:
May we, together with all buddhas;
Attain realization of the Dharma of non-appearance
That we may have affirmation.
Def: *The Dharma of Nonappearance : The Third Noble Truth; what is Nirvanna.
By “Dharma Gate”, We mean a teaching or practice that can lead to spiritual growth: some kind of positive outcome in terms of our practice. A way to approach the truth.
Reflection Prompt:
"The Buddha's teachings on the Four Noble Truths are sometimes compared to a physician diagnosing an illness and prescribing a treatment. The first truth tells us what the illness is and the second truth tells us what causes the illness. The Third Noble Truth holds out hope for a cure.
The solution to dukkha is to stop clinging and attaching. But how do we do that? The fact is that it cannot be accomplished by an act of will. It's impossible to just vow to yourself, from now on I won't crave anything. This doesn't work because the conditions that give rise to craving will still be present.
The Second Noble Truth tells us that we cling to things we believe will make us happy or keep us safe. Grasping for one ephemeral thing after another never satisfies us for long because it's all impermanent. It is only when we see this for ourselves that we can stop grasping. When we do see it, the letting go is easy. The craving will seem to disappear of its own accord.
The Buddha taught that through diligent practice, we can put an end to craving. Ending the hamster wheel-chase after satisfaction is enlightenment (bodhi, "awakened"). The enlightened being exists in a state called nirvana.."
affirmation.jpg
Capping Verse:
When this and that cease
What is not
Becomes all that is
gassho, Shokai
stlah
aprapti
