Dharma Discourse: Where Is the Barrier by Geoffrey Shugen Arnold Sensei:
"In this case, Liang approaches Qinshan and asks, "How is it when a single arrowhead smashes three barriers?" What these three barriers are, is not clearly specified; they could be the barriers of greed, anger and ignorance. Ultimately, this is not so important. Liang is really asking, is there one single arrowhead—one action, one realization—that can free one from all entanglements?
We often see different barriers as being distinct from each other. When we encounter greed within ourselves, we recognize that we have to be more generous. When we're angry, we know we have to be calmer. In our ignorance, we strive for greater clarity. But barriers can't be divided from each other. They all interpenetrate and arise from one place. They manifest in one body and mind, expressing one delusion that takes different forms at different times. They all arise from the attachment to a permanent self. What is the one single arrow that dissolves all forms of bondage?"
'via Blog this'
