Repentance
Repentance is:Â
“Although my past unwholesome actions have accumulated, causing hindrance in the study of the way, may buddhas and ancestors release me from these actions and liberate me. May the merit of practicing dharma fill inexhaustible worlds of phenomena. May compassion be extended to me.”
Before awakening, buddha ancestors were like you. Upon awakening you will become buddha ancestors. When you look at buddha ancewstors you are a buddha ancestor. When you look at their aspiration for enlightenment, you have the aspiration. Working with compassion this way and that, you achieve facility and you let facility drop away.Â
Thus, Longya said:Â
“If you did not attain enlightenment in the past, do so now. Liberate this body that is the culmination of many lifetimes. Before enlightenment, ancient buddhas were like us. When enlightened, we will be like those of old.”
This is the understanding of a realized buddha. We should reflect on it. This is the exact point of a realized buddha.
With repentance you will certainly receive invisible help from buddha ancestors. Repent to the buddhas with mind and body. The power of repentence melts the roots of unwholesomeness. This is the single color of true practice, the true heart of trust, the true body of trust.
Dogen Kigen | Shobogebzo (Ed. Tanahashi) | Valley sounds and mountain colours pg.94















