Coming to the Buddha's Teachings: Walking by Faith or Wisdom?

In our spiritual practice, there are stories that make us pause and reflect deeply. A young novice monk possessed virtue surpassing even his own teacher, yet he remained humble and devoted in serving him. What granted this novice such profound peace and wisdom? More importantly, which path do we take when approaching the Buddha's teachings (Dharma): faith or wisdom? Let us listen to the guidance of Venerable Thich Chan Quang in his dharma talk titled "Faith and Wisdom – The Dhammapada (35)."

### When a Student Surpasses the Teacher: A Joyful Occurrence

The story begins simply. An elder monk had a novice disciple under his care. Unexpectedly, this novice’s virtue exceeded that of his master; he had even attained realization. Yet, the novice always respected his teacher, serving him with dedication and never showing off his attainment.

One day, the teacher fell ill, and the novice attended to his meals. Accidentally, the teacher threw a fan that struck the novice’s eye, causing injury. Still, the novice remained polite and endured the pain to continue serving. When asked about it, he replied, "Venerable sir, earlier your fan hit my eye. It hurt, but I was not attentive enough. Please forgive me." At that moment, the teacher felt remorse and recognized the high virtue of his student.

Through this, Venerable Chan Quang teaches: "A disciple being better than the teacher is a good thing. A true teacher must always hope for this to happen."

Indeed, when children surpass their parents, or when the younger generation is more talented than the previous one, it brings joy to the family and the nation. In the spiritual path, it is the same. A genuine teacher does not fear disciples who excel beyond them but creates conditions for their growth. A sincere disciple, even knowing they have surpassed their teacher, maintains filial piety, humility, and gratitude toward their mentor.

### A Pure Mind Brings Peace in Words and Actions

The Buddha praised the novice with this verse: "One whose mind is tranquil, possessing liberating wisdom, finds purity and peace in both speech and action." However, we should not interpret this rigidly, assuming that an outwardly solemn appearance guarantees inner tranquility. Venerable Chan Quang emphasizes:

"Many people practice very strictly, yet only they know that at those moments, their minds are at their worst. Precisely when the mind is most troubled, they maintain the most serious external form."

Therefore, do not rush to judge. There are enlightened beings like Ji Gong, Budai, and Kim Son who appeared eccentric or playful on the outside, yet their inner spiritual hearts shone brightly. The difference lies in the mind/heart. When ordinary people scold others, anger clearly shows on their faces. When enlightened beings are strict, their expressions remain empty and peaceful. For an enlightened being, wine becomes mere water, and the mind remains undisturbed; whereas for a drunkard, every drop clouds the mind.

This is why Lao Tzu said: "When the Way is lost, one must hold onto virtue. When virtue is lost, one must hold onto ritual propriety." Before attaining enlightenment, we must uphold virtue and etiquette as guidelines. But if we stop merely at external forms, we can easily be deceived. Thus, let wisdom be our foundation.

### Two Paths into the Dharma: Acting on Faith and Acting on Truth

The Buddha taught that there are two types of practitioners: those who act based on faith, entering through belief, and those who act based on truth, entering through wisdom. Those acting on faith hear promises like "chanting this mantra will bring wealth" or "reciting the Buddha’s name ensures rebirth in the Pure Land," and they believe immediately. Those acting on truth verify, analyze logically, and follow only when they see the teachings are reasonable.

Sariputta was the model of one who acts based on truth. When the Buddha asked him if he believed that faith could lead to liberation, Sariputta replied:

"I do not practice based on blind faith. However, I think that those who have not yet attained fruit may reach enlightenment if they place their trust in a true spiritual teacher or a noble one."

Sariputta met Assaji and heard the verse, "All phenomena arise from conditions and also cease due to conditions." Upon hearing this, he instantly attained the first stage of enlightenment. He did not need to believe blindly; he saw the logic immediately. From then on, he walked the path of wisdom until he became an Arhat.

### Wisdom Illuminates Faith to Prevent Deception

Venerable Chan Quang warns: "Human beings are extremely gullible. Many religious, political, and intelligence figures exploit this very faith." They make strong promises, taking advantage of credulity to manipulate crowds. If we mistakenly trust a false teacher lacking true virtue, our lives will become dark. But if we are fortunate enough to trust a genuine master, it is a blessing.

Therefore, the most important task is to develop wisdom. Verify, analyze, and compare the teachings with real life. Do not easily believe in promises. The Buddha always encouraged learning and experimentation. Once wisdom opens up, we will walk confidently, no longer blinded by ignorance.

### Which Path Is Yours?

Today, after listening to this teaching, ask yourself: Am I walking the path of faith or wisdom? If you are still prone to easy belief, begin studying the teachings deeply. Let wisdom illuminate and guide you past all temptations to the shore of liberation. This is the path Sariputta walked, and it is also the message Venerable Thich Chan Quang offers to each of us.