The final three verses of Chapter 8 on Meditation are a summary reminder of the instructions in previous verses, based on exchanging: having a sense of the suffering and difficulties of others, and being there for them, placing their welfare before our own, and thereby becoming more mature through relinquishing selfish behaviours. This is the advice of the wise ones who have recognised that the way to happiness is by being selfless, ridding ourselves of the impediments such as preoccupations with doubt and desire, arrogance and malice, as these rob us of the energy for positive transformation.
We are reminded to employ the antidotes to these obstructions, by training in meditation, compassion and wisdom. Rinpoche points out that Shantideva’s instructions are important because they include explanations and reasoning, providing a logic to using these guidelines in our life, saying that when we engage in this way and see the benefits, we realise that it is not unnatural or a sacrifice, and the benefits are universally felt.
(This is the final session of Chapter 8 on Meditation.)
You can can also view the teaching on the Chapter 8 page along with the other teachings on this chapter. All previous sessions on Chapters 1–8 are available in the Courses section of the Teachings Archive.
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