Two Masters Within One Person

The temple bell had just faded, leaving the meditation hall in profound stillness. Late afternoon sunlight slipped through the door cracks, illuminating the wooden benches where practitioners sat. A middle-aged man rose with trembling hands. He bowed his head, his voice choked with emotion as he addressed the teacher.

He spoke of a close friend, someone he had once regarded as a brother. They had worked together and shared hardships side by side. Yet, during one business venture, this friend betrayed him, stealing a large sum of money. The man’s voice trembled with suppressed anger as he confessed that despite trying to endure and forgive, his blood boiled whenever he saw the betrayer. He admitted wanting revenge, knowing it was wrong but unable to control himself.

Venerable Thich Chan Quang, seated on the dharma throne, nodded gently. His gaze was filled with compassion yet sharp with insight. He asked if the man knew that within each person reside two masters. Surprised, the man looked up, eyes wide. The Venerable explained slowly and clearly that these are the Buddha and the Demon, living within our own mind/heart.

The Buddha aspect is characterized by compassion, joy, and tolerance. The Demon aspect is driven by greed, hatred and delusion. When we are confused and mistake falsehoods for truth, we listen to the Demon. When we are awakened, we follow the Buddha. The man fell silent, gripping his hands tightly, whispering how to ensure the Buddha prevails.

The Venerable looked directly into his eyes, speaking with solemnity. He said wisdom must be used. Wisdom is light; when light arrives, darkness vanishes. We must recognize the demon rising within us, urging us toward harm. However, we have the power to choose. We can either obey it or recite the Buddha’s name, reminding ourselves that all things are impermanence (anicca) and temporary illusions.

Tears rolled down the man’s cheeks as he bowed his head, understanding dawned upon him. He vowed to try. The Venerable smiled softly, correcting him gently. It is not about trying, but practicing. Every day, every hour, every minute. When anger arises, stop, breathe deeply, and ask yourself: "Who am I listening to? The Buddha or the Demon?" Gradually, the Buddha will grow stronger, and the Demon will weaken.

The man wiped his tears, stood up, and pressed his palms together in reverence. Returning to his seat, he felt a sense of relief. He knew the internal battle between the two masters would continue, but now he possessed the weapon to win.

The Meaning of the Story

Each person contains two aspects: the Buddha and the Demon. The Buddha represents enlightenment and compassion, while the Demon represents confusion and greed, hatred and delusion. Cultivation involves recognizing and nurturing the Buddha aspect, using wisdom to dispel the Demon, thereby achieving peace and liberation.

Compiled from a dharma talk by Venerable Thich Chan Quang