1. THE PATH OF PURIFICATION

Let us now get down to the base. What does Purification mean in this context? It means to attain perfect Virtue. But virtue in Chan has absolutely nothing to do with traditional ideas of Virtue which are based upon commandments or social norms. Virtue is an internal and natural precess that requires no words or concepts for its operation but does require conscious attitudes and intentions in order to restore its natural state.

This restoration is the PATH... and the Path of Purification is the path of RESTRAINT. This requires no resolutions nor firm application of personal will power. RESTRAINT is applying a brake to one's cognitive actions as one would apply a brake when trying to come to a standstill with a car upon ice.

Having with introspection and critical inquiry established what external actions are in error, then one applies RESTRAINT.

This restraint requires a constant mindfulness.

Without this constant vigilance of your momentary behaviour, your meditations will be weak and the mind agitated. So all meditations must begin with an understanding of what is entailed in momentary mindfulness and the methods of restraint.

Central to the concept of restraining inappropriate attitudes, intentions and readiness to respond is a mindfulness that is fully concious of others.

We may begin with a conscious understanding of this virtue, but eventually it must be internalized so that it becomes an integral part of all restraint. In other words, restraint is exercised not for your own growth and benefit alone, but for that of all other sentient creatures and the world that supports them.

1. Ahimsa or Non-injury

2. Satya or Truthfulness

3. Asteya or Nonstealing

4. Brahmacharya or Sexual Purity

5. Kshama or Patience

6. Dhriti or Steadfastness

7. Daya or Compassion

8. Arjava or Honesty

9. Mitahara or Moderate Diet

10. Saucha or Purity