Conceptualization Quote by Chan Master Sheng Yen
““Virtuous man, contrived conceptualizations come from the existence of a mind, which is a conditioned [conglomeration of] the six sense objects. The conditioned impressions of deluded thoughts are not the true essence of mind; rather, they are like flowers in the sky. The discernment of the realm of Buddhahood with such conceptualization is comparable to the production of empty fruit by the empty flower. One merely revolves in this entanglement of deluded thoughts and gains no result.””
About This Quote
Source Sutra: Mahayana Buddhism, 1990s
Conceptual thoughts arise from mind’s conditioned nature; they are not true essence, likened to fleeting flowers.
In simple terms: Thoughts are fleeting, not true mind.
Cultivate awareness beyond concepts.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- meditation practice
- psychotherapy
- creative brainstorming
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you notice mental constructs?
- What practices reveal true mind?
May be abstract for beginners.