Four Principles of Thien (Zen)

4 principles of thien

Self Reflection:

Our thinking mind is not the true mind. When a thought arises, be aware of it but do not follow it. When thinking stops, there remains only awareness and calmness which is our true mind.

Non-attachment between our senses and the sense objects:

The six sense-consciousness (eye-consciousness, ear-consciousness, nose-consciousness, tongue-consciousness, body-consciousness & mind-consciousness) generated when our six senses (eyes, ear, nose, tongue, body & mind) come into contact with the sense objects (form, sound, smell, taste, touch & mind object) are illusionary and empty. By not attaching our senses to the sense objects, we abide in our original nature.

Non-Differentiation:

Differentiation is our false thinking mind at work. When differentiation stops, unreal thinking also stops, and our ‘original face’ appears.

Living with the Truth:

Always live with true nature by abiding in the above 3 principles and not to follow false phenomena. Whatever false is impermanent and whatever real is liberation.

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