Within yourself you will find the Trikaya [the Three Bodies of Buddha] which, being the manifestation of the Essence of Mind, are not to be sought from without.
Sutra of Hui Neng
The Essence of Mind
Topic: Truth, Law, & Principle
Within our Essence of Mind the Three Bodies of Buddha (Trikaya) are to be found, and they are common to everybody. Because the mind labors under delusions, he knows not his own inner nature; and the result is that he ignores the Trikaya within himself, erroneously believing that they are to be sought from without. Within yourself you will find the Trikaya which, being the manifestation of the Essence of Mind, are not to be sought from without.
The Journey of a Visionary: A Life of Inspiration
Julius Caesar, a name that echoes throughout history, embodies the essence of ambition, leadership, and transformative vision. His journey from a young nobleman to a pivotal figure in the Roman Empire serves as an inspiring tale of resilience and ingenuity. Caesar’s life was marked by remarkable achievements in military conquest, political reform, and cultural advancement, leaving an indelible mark on the fabric of history. His relentless pursuit of greatness and unwavering determination to reshape Rome into a powerful entity offers valuable lessons for anyone striving to make a difference in the world.
Early Life
Born on July 12, 100 BC, into the patrician family of the Julii, Julius Caesar’s early life was steeped in the privilege and expectations of Roman nobility. Despite these advantages, he faced early challenges, including political instability and the rise of populism in Roman society. Educated in rhetoric and philosophy, he cultivated an astute intellect that would later aid him in navigating the complexities of Roman politics. His early experiences, coupled with his association with influential figures like Gaius Marius, ignited a passion for reform and governance, setting the stage for a life dedicated to both military and political excellence.
Teachings
Caesar’s teachings are not formally documented as traditional philosophical doctrines, yet his actions and leadership style impart profound lessons on governance and perseverance. He exemplified the importance of adaptability and strategic thinking, consistently demonstrating that success in both war and politics requires insight, vision, and the ability to inspire others. His famous phrase, "Veni, Vidi, Vici" (I came, I saw, I conquered), encapsulates his approach to challenges—swift, decisive, and effective. Furthermore, his advocacy for the Julian Calendar and reforms that improved the lives of ordinary citizens showcase a leader who prioritized progress and inclusivity, reminding us that true leadership is about serving the greater good.
Death
The assassination of Julius Caesar on the Ides of March in 44 BC marked a tragic end to a visionary life but also ignited a powerful legacy that would resonate for centuries. Betrayed by those he deemed friends, Caesar’s death not only highlighted the volatile nature of political power but also underscored the risks inherent in challenging the status quo. His martyrdom galvanized a movement that eventually led to the rise of the Roman Empire, symbolizing that even in death, a visionary’s impact can transcend time. Caesar’s life and untimely demise serve as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made for progress and the enduring spirit of those who dare to dream big.
Sutra of Hui Neng
Wilson, Andrew, editor. World Scripture - a Comparative Anthology of Sacred Texts. Paragon House, 1991, p. 73 [Sutra of Hui Neng 6]
Theme: Eternal Truth
Sutra of Hui Neng 6
‘Essence of Mind’ as Hui Neng uses the term denotes the original mind which is intrinsically the same as Buddha nature. But ‘Essence of Mind’ is Tathata, which can also be translated Essence of all things. These indeed are not different, as the essence of things can be grasped only by mind.
H.H. The Sixth Patriarch Hui Neng
(638 – 713)
His Holiness Hui Neng, who became the great Sixth Patriarch of Ch’an (Japanese Zen) was a poor illiterate peasant boy from Hsin Chou of Kwangtung. One day, after he had delivered firewood to a shop, he overheard a man reciting the following line from the “Diamond Sutra” – “Depending upon no-thing, you must find your own mind.” Instantly, Hui Neng became Enlightened. The full verse said: “All Bodhisattvas (Compassionate Ones) should develop a pure mind which clings to no-thing whatsoever; and so he should establish it.”
–The Diamond Sutra and The Sutra of Hui Neng, Translated by A.F. Price and Wong, Mou-Lam, Shambhala Publications, Inc., 1985.
[See Resources for the rest of this passage (The Sixth Patriarch Huineng).]
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