Those wishing to be a follower of the Buddhist tradition, eventually realize that it is important to build strong foundations of practice. Why? The ancients warned that, “Compassion without Wisdom is easily overwhelmed by suffering, and Wisdom without Compassion is a path built of selfishness.” In other words, it is necessary to cultivate Compassion and Wisdom in harmony. This is the path of a Buddha-to-be.

To introduce students to the essential teachings and practices of Shakyamuni Buddha, Ven. Shih Jingang, our Spiritual Director, developed a system of training called, “Five Foundations of Practice.” It is designed to be compatible with the Five Elements Practices used by people who follow the path of unified Chan and Pure Land Buddhism. (See: Five Elements Practices page). Below is a basic outline of the Five Foundations of Practice:

Earth

The Earth element refers to the mindful study of the Buddha’s Noble Eightfold Path, which consists of: 1. Right Understanding, 2. Right Intentions, 3. Right Speech, 4. Right Action, 5. Right Livelihood, 6. Right Effort, 7. Right Mindfulness, and 8. Right Concentration.

Water

The Water element represents the practice of Recitation, and focuses mainly on the ancient Buddho mantra and the Atta Dipa verse, both of which ride upon the breath. They flow naturally, like the current of a river. The latter verse is as follows:

ATTA DIPA VIHARATHA ATTA SARANA ANANNA SARANA DHAMMA DIPA DHAMMA SARANA ANANNA SARANA

(English Translation: Dwell! You are the Light itself. Rely on yourself. Do not rely on others. The Dharma is the light. Rely on the Dharma. Do not rely on anything other than the Dharma).

Fire

The Fire element represents the practice of Visualization Meditation. Here the main focus is on the ancient practice of cultivating Metta (Loving-Kindness). Traditionally this practice is done in four stages, 1. beginning with oneself, then 2. bringing to mind a loved one/s, 3. an acquaintance/s, and 4. so-called ‘difficult person/s.’ As well as visualizing various people, one may choose to use certain phrases, such as, “May I be more kind to myself, May I be more patient with myself. May I be at peace…” “May you be happy. May you be well. May you be at peace…” “May all sentient beings be well, without exception.”

Air

The Air element represents the purifying aspect of the practice of Refuge and Precepts. This creates an opportunity to give thanks by Taking Refuge in the Three Jewels (Buddha, Dharma and Sangha). One also recites the Five Buddhist Precepts, which can be a time for ‘clearing the air,’ allowing one to self-acknowledge harmful patterns of thought, speech and actions, and through the vows one makes, refine personal attitudes and behavior. By learning from and overcoming unskillful habits, one may then tap into the innate Compassion, Wisdom and Insight within.

Space

The Space element refers to the boundless nature of Mind itself, which is synonymous with Boundless Compassion and Wisdom. Through Meditation practices, including Calm Abiding (following the breath), one gradually develops deeper levels of meditative concentration. This eventually leads a practitioner to experience Samadhi (deep meditative states of absorption). On this path of practice it is also necessary to ask, “Who is the one following the breath?” “Who is the one sitting?” etc.

With discipline, wise effort, and some guidance from a qualified teacher/s, it is possible to build strong foundations of practice, eventually bringing peace, clarity and openness to one’s life. The path of a Buddha is the Middle Way between the extremes of materialism and asceticism. It is a life of learning about Attachment, Anger and Ignorance, and transcending those harmful states of mind. In doing so, when Wisdom and Compassion are One, then “I” becomes “Us.” Liberated from Samsaric suffering, a Buddha works to liberate other sentient beings.

May all be well.

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