Borrowing External Conditions

By Victor M Fontane

The concept of "borrowing external conditions" is a key attitude in the practice of Mahayana Buddhism. It signifies that practitioners, when confronted with the phenomena of the external five sensory domains and six senses, neither evade nor cling to them. Instead, they skillfully utilize these realms as tools for self-examination and refinement, guided by an understanding of dependent origination and the illusory nature of reality. As stated in the Diamond Sutra, "one should generate the mind without attachment to anything.” Even while experiencing the various adversities and comforts of the world, practitioners can recognize that all external conditions lack inherent existence and are merely products of causation. They neither cling to phenomena nor repulse them, nor do they isolate their senses from the world; rather, the true aim is to remain unconfused and unperturbed by external conditions.

The cultivation of the mind resembles the repeated practice of archery. Initially, practitioners may experience trembling hands and uneven focus; however, through diligent, consistent effort—regardless of external circumstances, whether favorable or unfavorable, near or far—their alignment with body and mind gradually improves. Eventually, they can smoothly draw the arrow and release it without obstruction. The joys and sorrows, as well as the favorable or adverse circumstances of external conditions, should be viewed as mirrors for observing the mind's cravings, aversions, and fluctuations. By turning inward, one can perceive habitual tendencies and ignorance, recognizing one’s true nature beyond superficial appearances. Along this journey, even when afflictive thoughts arise, practitioners must maintain perseverance—much like a novice archer who refuses to be discouraged—and constantly adjust their approach. Once they continuously utilize these conditions for mental training, any delusions naturally diminish, leading to a more ripe and insightful state of mind.

This process involves observing the true nature amid the ups and downs of life, experiencing the impermanence, non-self, and illusory quality of existence—particularly in the face of life's stimuli or disturbances. Through the recitation of "Namo Amitabha Buddha," practitioners anchor their minds in the present moment, severing delusional thoughts and allowing for a tranquil state of ordinary mind. The recitation serves not only as a means to calm scattered thoughts but also as a key to clear insight. When afflictions arise, practitioners become aware, repent, and accept their shadowy tendencies without rejecting or repressing them; within this awareness lies the observation of arising and ceasing, leading to self-realization.

The wisdom and stabilizing function encapsulated in the recitation foster transformation and stabilization of the inner self. Ultimately, practitioners can employ prajna wisdom and non-attachment at any moment, recognizing their own minds and transforming afflictions into paths of cultivation. In the midst of myriad phenomena, they experience impermanence, emptiness, and freedom while continually refining their mental qualities, nurturing an unwavering tranquility in the present moment—much like a skilled archer who responds seamlessly to circumstances with unerring accuracy. This elucidates the practice spirit of "not dwelling while cultivating true insight into all dharmas," as well as the profound path of "Buddhism in the world, not separate from worldly awakening." Only through ongoing observation and training within everyday life can this insight deepen, leading to clarity and ease of mind, thereby transforming these external conditions into optimal opportunities for growth and refinement.