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What is the main message of Bankei Yotaku's teachings?
Bankei Yotaku was a Japanese Zen master who lived in the 17th century. He is known for his simple yet profound teachings that have continued to inspire and guide people to this day. His main message can be summarized as the importance of living in the present moment and letting go of attachments and desires.
Bankei emphasized the concept of "Unborn" or "Original Mind," which is the natural state of our mind before it is clouded by thoughts and desires. He believed that this Original Mind is pure and free from suffering, and it is always present within us. However, we often get caught up in our thoughts and desires, which leads to suffering and dissatisfaction.
One of the key teachings of Bankei is the concept of "no-mind." He encouraged his students to let go of their ego and to stop clinging to their thoughts and desires. By doing so, one can experience the state of "no-mind," which is a state of pure awareness and complete freedom from attachments.
Bankei also emphasized the importance of living in the present moment. He believed that the past is gone, and the future is yet to come, so the only moment we truly have is the present. By focusing on the present moment, we can let go of our worries and anxieties about the past and the future, and fully experience the beauty of life.
Another important aspect of Bankei's teachings is the idea of "ordinary mind." He believed that enlightenment is not something that can be attained through special practices or rituals, but it is already present within our ordinary, everyday mind. We just need to let go of our attachments and distractions to realize it.
Bankei's teachings also emphasize the importance of compassion and non-judgment. He believed that everyone has the potential for enlightenment, and it is not our place to judge or criticize others. Instead, we should cultivate compassion and understanding towards others, as we are all connected and part of the same universe.
In conclusion, Bankei Yotaku's main message is about living in the present moment, letting go of attachments and desires, and realizing the pure and free nature of our Original Mind. His teachings continue to inspire and guide people to live a more mindful, compassionate, and fulfilling life.