Bodhisattvas Need Merit: Why Do Those Walking the Bodhisattva Path Gather Every Tiny Bit of Blessing?

Venerable Thich Chan Quang reveals a profound secret. Even though they walk in happiness and light, Bodhisattvas still need to accumulate merit little by little. This merit is not for personal enjoyment. It is gathered so that they can continue their practice and help others in the world.

Have you ever wondered why Bodhisattvas, who have traversed many lifetimes of cultivation, still require blessings from merit? We often assume that merit is only for those who have not yet begun their spiritual journey. We think enlightened beings have already transcended such needs. However, Venerable Thich Chan Quang points out the opposite truth.

### Time Means Nothing When You Are on the Right Path

Hearing that Bodhisattvas must cultivate for thousands of lifetimes can feel discouraging. Yet, the teacher explains that we are walking in light, in truth, and in happiness. When one walks in happiness, time does not seem long at all.

It is like sitting with a loved one; an hour passes in a blink. In contrast, an hour of hard labor feels endless. Therefore, the most important thing is to be on the right path. To stay on this path, one must possess right view.

### The Secret: Do Not Stop at "Enough"

When our mind temporarily settles, we easily think, "This is enough. I am happy." The teacher notes that even those who have attained the stage of Non-Returner, possessing supernatural powers and freedom, still experience this feeling. This is a type of fetter, a natural instinct that only ceases upon attaining Arhatship. To overcome it, we use a wonderful mantra.

"I am merely dust and grass."

When we hold this intention, comparisons, self-praise, and self-reward subside. We truly merge with the earth and sky, seeing the beauty in falling raindrops and ocean waves. But stopping there is not yet the way of a Bodhisattva. The teacher continues his instruction.

While your mind is peaceful and joyful, add this intention: "May my heart love all sentient beings." From that moment, you become a Bodhisattva.

However, the teacher also warns us. Do not praise yourself as a Bodhisattva. If you do, you must take full responsibility for whatever happens next.

### Why Do Bodhisattvas Need Merit?

Some people believe that seeking merit is unspiritual or lacking in morality. The teacher refutes this idea firmly.

A person with wisdom is the one who desires merit more than anyone else. The difference is that they do not seek it for enjoyment. Only those who lack wisdom fail to see the need for merit.

Without merit, we cannot practice effectively. Worse, others may look down on us, treating us with contempt, even viewing us as less than human. When merit runs out, people naturally feel disdain when they see us. A Bodhisattva is one who gathers every drop of merit, leaving none scattered or wasted.

### Every Small Drop of Merit: Do Not Waste It

The teacher offers very practical examples. Each morning, when washing our face and hands, we could use half a liter of water. Yet, many people waste several liters. Eating habits are similar. After thirty-five or forty years of age, eating too much brings no benefit. It only creates illness and depletes merit. A Bodhisattva is careful in every small action, ensuring each deed generates merit rather than creating negative karma.

A Bodhisattva does not leave a single grain of merit scattered without picking it up completely.

### Merit for Practice: Meeting True Teachers and Reforming Rituals

With merit, we gain time and are not crushed by the hardships of life. With merit, we meet true teachers. But the teacher warns that without merit, we might fall under the influence of false teachers, practicing endlessly without result. He strongly advocates for reforming chanting rituals so that the Dharma reaches people directly in their homes.

People should understand immediately upon hearing the teachings. They should comprehend as they chant. Hearing just one phrase while passing a temple should stop them in their tracks, touching their hearts deeply. Only sutras like this are supreme, capable of saving all sentient beings.

Today’s lesson is profound. Begin with small actions. Wash your hands with the right amount of water. Eat moderately. Always hold the intention, "I am merely dust," to keep your mind serene. From this peace, arise with the vow to love all sentient beings. This is the first step on the Bodhisattva path. Do not let blessings from merit scatter away, and never let your heart close against the suffering of the world.