The conversation between Crown Prince Manjusri and the Licchavi Vimalakirti unfolded like this:
Manjusri inquired about how a bodhisattva progresses towards attaining the qualities of a Buddha. Vimalakirti’s response was unconventional. He explained that a bodhisattva follows the path to Buddha-hood by seemingly straying from conventional norms.
Vimalakirti elaborated on this by describing how a bodhisattva navigates through various experiences without being ensnared by them. Even amidst engaging in actions that might conventionally be considered wrong or detrimental, the bodhisattva remains untainted by negative emotions or attachments.
He illustrated scenarios where the bodhisattva interacts with desire, hatred, folly, avarice, immorality, and other aspects of human experience, yet maintains a state of equanimity, compassion, and wisdom.
Vimalakirti emphasized that the bodhisattva’s journey involves transcending dualities and embracing paradoxes. Their actions and choices, though unconventional, are guided by compassion and the intention to alleviate suffering and lead beings towards enlightenment.
Manjusri further questioned Vimalakirti about the concept of the “family of the Tathágatas.” Manjusri explained that this family encompasses all aspects of human experience, including egoism, ignorance, passion, and various forms of delusion. He emphasized that even seemingly negative qualities contribute to the bodhisattva’s journey towards enlightenment.
Vimalakirti concurred, emphasizing that the path to enlightenment involves embracing the entirety of human experience, including its passions and challenges. He likened this journey to pearls growing in the depths of muddy swamps, suggesting that enlightenment blossoms amidst the complexities and struggles of life.
The elder Maha-Kasyapa echoed this sentiment, asserting that only those who have experienced the depths of human existence, including the five deadly sins, can truly appreciate and aspire towards enlightenment. He highlighted the limitations of disciples who, despite their knowledge, may lack the capacity to fully comprehend the qualities of the Buddha.
The bodhisattva Sarvarupasamdarsana then posed a series of questions to Vimalakirti, inquiring about his familial relationships and possessions. In response, Vimalakirti conveyed a profound spiritual perspective, illustrating how the bodhisattva’s true family consists of wisdom, compassion, and the pursuit of enlightenment.
He described how the bodhisattva’s relationships and possessions are metaphorical, representing virtues and practices essential for spiritual growth. Vimalakirti emphasized that the bodhisattva’s true wealth lies in the Dharma and their dedication to the well-being and enlightenment of all beings.
Through these exchanges, Vimalakirti elucidated the unconventional yet compassionate path of the bodhisattva, challenging conventional notions of right and wrong while emphasizing the importance of wisdom, compassion, and skillful means on the journey towards enlightenment.
Link: https://wisdomtea.org/2024/04/18/the-family-of-the-tathagatas/
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