Question 62: DOES ENTERING A MEDITATIVE STATE MEAN I HAVE BECOME A ZEN MASTER?

Question 62: DOES ENTERING A MEDITATIVE STATE MEAN I HAVE BECOME A ZEN MASTER? Answer: There are three foundations that we should understand to avoid self-deception (flattering ourselves): - The Noble Foundation: Individuals born with this quality possess the attributes of a saint, even before practicing meditation. When they meditate, they naturally attain enlightenment. Even if their minds momentarily wander, their fundamental nature remains that of a saint. It's like a mansion; even if it gets a little dirty, it's still a mansion. - The Ordinary Foundation: People born with this quality possess the characteristics of ordinary beings, and tenuous connection to Buddhism. Through diligent meditation, they may achieve certain meditative states, but they remain ordinary. It's like a thatched hut; no matter how clean it is, it can't become a mansion. To transform into a mansion requires accumulating countless good deeds and cultivating profound virtue. Many meditators fall into this category, achieving meditative states but remaining ordinary beings. - The Inferior Foundation: These individuals were destined for lower realms such as those of animals, hungry ghosts, or hell but were able to maintain a human form due to past good deeds. However, their spiritual potential is quite limited. Even upon encountering the Dharma, they have developed a sincere intention to practice meditation, they may struggle to enter deep meditative states and may only be able to maintain a state of mindfulness. This is like living in a dilapidated hut where rain and wind can easily penetrate, despite any efforts to repair it. If such individuals persevere in meditation and diligently practice repentance, they may improve their spiritual condition in future lives hopefully. We must assess our own foundation to understand our potential and limitations.