There are three obstacles that stand in the way of enlightenment. They can be removed by dedicating our merit to the welfare of others.
The first obstacle is grasping at the false self. This is removed by means of non-dual wisdom. To understand emptiness and the false self makes us not seek self-enjoyment.
The second obstacle is knowing no peace. This is removed by a compassionate heart that works to relieve all sentient beings from suffering. Through compassion, we are freed from restlessness.
The third obstacle is feeling worthy of offerings and reverence. This is removed by arousing love for all beings and applying skillful means to save them.
—Arya Vasubandhu, Treatise on the Pure Land
Simply… amazing!
Thank you
It made my day, so beautiful! Especially the third one, great reminder of Buddha nature in all human beings. Gracias:-))
Tashi la, I do not understand the third obstacle. Is it that by “feeling worthy of offerings and reverence” we have become too full of our holiness, i.e. prideful and arrogant?
I do not walk around wishing for others to make reverential offerings to me so I guess I am in the clear — just trying to understand. Can you clarify?
When we feel superior, we deny the Buddha Nature of others, and affirm a false separation between ‘self’ and others. We lack the Wisdom of Equality.
I see that. Thank you.