Religion does not mean just precepts, a temple, monastery, or other external signs, for these as well as hearing and thinking are subsidiary factors in taming the mind. When the mind becomes the practices, one is a practitioner of religion, and when the mind does not become the practices one is not.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- True religion is about internal mental discipline rather than external rituals or buildings.
- In plain terms
- Being religious means your mind follows the practice, not just going to a temple.
- What can you take from it?
- Focus on internalizing practices rather than performing outward rituals.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Do I practice to look religious or to change my mind?
- How do I know my mind has become the practice?
Another view
External signs can still provide community support and structure for beginners.
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