Shantideva:
The Bodhicaryavatara , Chapter 5: The guarding of awareness
Seikon
So, I
have asked for directions, committed to the journey, and recognized that there
will be setbacks and sustained effort is required. We are on our way!
Walking
the way is practicing the perfections of the Bodhisattva:
1. Dāna paramita: generosity, giving of oneself
2. Sila
paramita : virtue, morality, proper
conduct
3. Ksanti paramita : patience, tolerance, forbearance, acceptance, endurance
4. Virya
paramita : energy, diligence, vigor,
effort
5. Dhyāna paramita :
one-pointed concentration, contemplation
6. Praj–a
paramita : wisdom, insight
In this
chapter, Shantideva considers generosity and morality, and then talks about
mindfulness and awareness. All these perfections relate to the guarding of
awareness – without the protection of oneÕs mind, it is impossible to
practice the perfections. Conversely, the practice of the perfections provides
a protection for oneÕs mind. Without being aware of my intolerance, how may I
practice tolerance, and so on? So, being awake, being on guard, at all the
sense gates, including thought, is a foundation for walking on the path of the
Bodhisattva.
The chapter places a lot of emphasis
on mind. I take this to be mind-body, as the two are not really
distinguishable. We donÕt want to revert to Cartesian duality.
I think it is great advice to look
at those people, things, situations, which cause me problems – anger,
impatience, whatever it is, and be grateful that they give me the
opportunity to practice the perfections.
This places such a positive slant on living with all of lifeÕs trials. ItÕs
liberating.
IÕm on the Bodhisattva bus.
Someone is tooting his horn
and trying to pass
Great! I can practice
patience.
Someone canÕt afford a ticket.
Great! I can practice generosity.
The journey is so long and tiresome.
Great! I can practice patience.
The ticket collector thinks I have a ticket.
Great! I can practice morality.
The rain is pouring down, and IÕve been asked to drive.
Great! This will need concentration.
Do we really know where we are going?
Great! I may develop
the wisdom to know there is no route.