The true manifestation of the Way ofGreat Learning. 2Dec24. 1543hrs.

This is a deeply insightful expression that embodies a dialectical relationship and a harmonious perspective.

In the world of You (Bodhisattva) - I (Buddha) - He/They (Sentient Beings), each perspective is not isolated but interwoven into a unified whole. Let’s break it down and integrate the meanings:

1. You (Bodhisattva)

The perspective of the Bodhisattva is rooted in compassion, acting to liberate beings according to circumstances. In “You,” there is already the inclusion of “I” and “He/They”—the Bodhisattva sees sentient beings as oneself and oneself as sentient beings, embodying the idea of awakening others to awaken oneself.

2. I (Buddha)

The Buddha represents enlightenment and perfect wisdom. From this perspective, “I” is non-dual and encompasses the emptiness of all phenomena. Within “I” is also “You” (the Bodhisattva’s compassion) and “He/They” (the sentient beings’ aspirations), for enlightenment exists to serve all, and all beings complete enlightenment.

3. He/They (Sentient Beings)

Sentient beings, though caught in delusion and suffering, carry infinite potential for awakening. From their perspective, they look up to the Bodhisattva (seeking guidance) and the Buddha (pursuing perfection). Yet they may not realize that within themselves lies the compassion of the Bodhisattva and the seed of the Buddha. In “He/They,” the qualities of “You” and “I” are latent, waiting to be awakened.

The Unified World:

This trinity represents an “interpenetrating and mutually inclusive network of life.”

• When the Bodhisattva walks among sentient beings, they are both the guide (“He/They”) and the manifestation of awakening (“I”).

• When the Buddha contemplates the world, sentient beings are the Buddha’s reflection, and the Bodhisattva’s compassion is the expression of enlightenment.

• When sentient beings awaken, their enlightenment fulfills both the Bodhisattva’s mission and the Buddha’s realization.

This is like three luminous jewels—seemingly distinct, yet their brilliance reflects and interconnects.

In practice, we can embody each role at every moment:

• You can inspire others as a Bodhisattva,

• I can reflect inwardly as a Buddha,

• He/They represent all beings growing alongside us.

The unity of these three perspectives is the true manifestation of the Great Way.