Recollection of the Buddha


Recollection of the Buddha (Buddhanusati) is one of the meditation subjects
 
of samatha. When we reflect on the Buddha’s virtues moments of calm may
 
arise, but akusala citta is bound to arise as well since akusala cittas arise
 
time and again throughout our life. When we look at a Buddha statue there
 
is likely to be clinging. We like seeing, we like visible object and we like
 
thinking of what we have seen. The fact that it is a Buddha statue we look at
 
cannot prevent us from clinging. We should not be discouraged by the
 
akusala cittas which arise. If we think with aversion of our clinging there is
 
akusala citta. At the moment of right understanding that knows akusala as
 
akusala, there is kusala citta. Different cittas are arising and falling away all
 
the time and, therefore, it is difficult to know them precisely. We should not
 
delude ourselves into thinking that there is bhavana, merely because we sit
 
in front of a Buddha statue and we recite some texts. When we pay respect
 
to the Buddha there is an opportunity for kusala sila through body and
 
speech. When we ponder over his virtues moments of calm can arise.
 
Contemplation of the Buddha’s virtues is difficult for those who have not
 
attained enlightenment. Can one really know what enlightenment means if
 
one has not attained it oneself?  However, when we have reflected upon the
 
teachings and when we apply them in daily life, the Buddha’s wisdom,
 
compassion and purity begin to have more meaning to us. Then there may
 
be conditions for calm when we contemplate his virtues.
 


Topic 209