Keep Being Tested

In Zen philosophy, it is frequently said that even enlightened disciples are sometimes asked by a Master a question to determine whether their understanding of their Buddha nature remains effortlessly intuitive. The mere occurrence of a reactive sensation would indicate that such realization has not been fully actualized.

While our existence merely comprises breath out and breath in, we can swiftly become unenlightened if we are not consciously mindful of our circumstances. This can manifest especially if we lack intention or awareness as to the precise thought or experience dominating a given moment. Any lingering unconscious programs or conditioning will serve as triggers that disrupt tranquil oceanic awareness, immediately plunging an individual back into spiritual slumber, independent of their degree of enlightenment. Surprisingly, even a person who has claimed to have achieved illumination might persist as a servant to a relentless and destructive tyrant — the indelicate narcissistic ego, associated with hubris, manipulation, claims of authority without warrant, complete heedlessness of others’ suffering, and a lack of genuine compassion.