Cultivating Through Principle or Phenomena? – Understanding Correctly to Avoid Getting Lost

In Buddhism, cultivating through principle and cultivating through phenomena may seem contradictory, but they are actually one. A correct understanding of both helps practitioners avoid getting lost on the path, allowing them to clearly see their own faults and strive diligently toward enlightenment.

Have you ever heard someone say that a person cultivates through principle, while another cultivates through phenomena, and wondered what that means? In the Buddha's teachings, Principle and Phenomena are two important categories, yet many people understand them vaguely. Today, let us explore these concepts together to gain a clearer view of our own spiritual journey.

The story begins at a small temple. One layperson saw a teacher passing by and patted him on the shoulder, asking casually about his well-being. He made no distinction between monastics and laypeople, seeing everyone as equal. Another layperson witnessed this and shook his head in disapproval, insisting that one should press palms together and bow respectfully. The first man ignored hierarchy, while the second upheld ritual propriety. With two different approaches, who is truly practicing correctly? This is the question that Venerable Thich Chan Quang addressed in a profound dharma talk.

### What is Principle? – The Empty Stillness of the Mind

As Venerable Thich Chan Quang teaches, Principle is not merely dry theory. It refers to the nature of reality—the deep essence of the mind, which is pure, empty, still, and luminous. This is something every person already possesses: Buddha-nature and self-nature. Those who cultivate through Principle strive to keep the mind free from discrimination, unmoved, and without arising thoughts, aiming to enter into that true nature.

Principle means the nature of reason. It encompasses logical truths, theories, philosophies, and the inherent qualities of the ultimate reality. Imagine looking at everything as illusory; you would no longer be troubled by luck, success, or failure. Your mind becomes relaxed and light. That is the benefit of cultivating through Principle.

### What are Phenomena? – Concrete Actions of the Practitioner

Phenomena refer to deeds and conduct. Those who cultivate through Phenomena emphasize ethics, compassion, humility, courtesy, and helping others. They clearly distinguish social hierarchies to behave appropriately.

Phenomena mean actions. This includes ethical behaviors, charitable works, humble attitudes, polite manners, and an altruistic lifestyle. When doing charity, you must discern those who suffer more than yourself to offer help. When meeting a teacher, you recognize your role as a disciple and bow respectfully. This is discrimination. Ironically, it is this very discrimination that those cultivating through Principle often consider inferior.

### Principle and Phenomena – Seemingly Opposite

At first glance, Principle and Phenomena appear opposed. Principle is non-discrimination, while Phenomena involve discrimination. A practitioner of Principle might pat a teacher’s shoulder because they see the teacher as equal to themselves, whereas a practitioner of Phenomena presses palms together and bows. At higher levels, Zen masters have performed striking actions to express Principle. For example, Master Zhaozhou cut off a cat’s head with indifference. This was Principle. It sounds crazy, but in the context of Zen, it is a lesson in letting go of all discrimination.

Speaking according to Principle is like Master Zhaozhou cutting off the cat’s head instantly and calmly, without discrimination. That is Principle.

Because of such abstract actions, many fear cultivating through Principle, worrying it leads to arbitrariness or heartlessness. However, this is only the surface appearance of the issue.

### Correct Understanding – Principle and Phenomena Are One

Venerable Thich Chan Quang emphasizes that when we understand correctly, Principle and Phenomena are inseparable. Deep practitioners realize that both are one. The most important aspect of cultivation, whether through Principle or Phenomena, is the path of seeing one’s own faults. The deeper you practice, the more clearly you perceive subtle errors previously unnoticed.

Eventually, we will see that Principle and Phenomena are one when we understand correctly.

In his teaching, the Venerable shared: "Ultimately, the life of a practitioner is simply about seeing one’s faults." To achieve this, do not rush to be satisfied with temporary states of emptiness and stillness. Instead, continue to strive diligently. He advised: "Do not look for smooth paths; just try to see your faults."

Cultivation until the end is solely about seeing faults.

### Practice for Modern People

How can we apply Principle and Phenomena in daily life? Venerable Thich Chan Quang warns us not to be swept away by lofty goals or perfect theories, forgetting the core effort: seeing our own faults.

Never be deceived or misled by the high ideals presented by others.

He reminded us in a prayer: "May I walk forever, never stopping halfway." This means that no matter what level we attain, we must continue observing to find new faults. The method is concrete: practice meditative concentration to keep the mind pure (following Principle), while strictly keeping precepts and diligently doing good deeds (following Phenomena).

Set aside time each day to sit in meditation and observe the mind. Watch your reactions during interactions to identify faults. When you notice a mistake, remember it so you do not repeat it next time.

A true practitioner integrates both: while sitting in meditation, the mind does not wander; after leaving meditation, one remains kind and approachable to everyone.

In the end, spiritual practice is not about choosing between Principle and Phenomena, but advancing both simultaneously. When the mind is empty and still, you act correctly. When you act with compassion, you find your mind even more empty and still. Start right now: sit down, breathe evenly, and observe your mind. See your faults, correct them gradually, and walk the path of enlightenment with both Principle and Phenomena in your heart, inspiring those around you.