Buddhism Quote by Kaiten Nukariya
““It is quite reasonable that Zenists distinguish supernatural powers from spiritual uplifting, the former an acquirement of Devas, or of Asuras, or of Arhats, or of even animals, and the latter as a nobler accomplishment attained only by the practisers of Mahayanism. Moreover, they use the term supernatural power in a meaning entirely different from the original one. Lin Tsi (Rin-zai) says, for instance: "There are six supernatural powers of Buddha: He is free from the temptation of form, living in the world of form; He is free from the temptation of sound, living in the world of sound; He is free from the temptation of smell, living in the world of smell; He is free from the temptation of taste, living in the world of taste; He is free from the temptation of Dharma,[FN#254] living in the world of Dharma. These are six supernatural powers."[FN#255]””
About This Quote
Source Text: Zen Philosophy Commentary, 2008
Zen distinguishes divine powers of beings from the higher spiritual achievements of Mahayana practitioners.
In simple terms: Zen separates supernatural powers from higher spiritual practice.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the difference between innate powers and cultivated insight.
Themes
spirituality
Zen
Mahayanism
Mood
contemplative
educational
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- meditation practice
- religious study
- personal enlightenment
- ethical living
Key Concepts
supernatural powers
spiritual development
mindfulness
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you seek innate abilities or cultivated insight?
- How does this distinction shape your practice?
A Different Perspective
Interpretations vary across traditions; some view powers as metaphorical.
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