DHARMA SPRING

There is Only One Delusion

August 14, 2020 Andrew Palmer
DHARMA SPRING
There is Only One Delusion
Show Notes

In Zen it is said there are 108 delusions of the mind, thus at the New Year a bell is struck 108 times to ring these delusions out and away. Throughout Buddhism there is also the well-known figure Manjushri, Bodhisattva of Wisdom, who wields a diamond sword that cuts through delusions. Yet, despite the ringing of bells and swinging of swords, delusions come rolling back in and springing up once again, endlessly, it seems, making 108 seem like a vastly conservative estimate. However, I propose that there is only one delusion, serving as the root and source of all delusions: a mistaken belief, perspective and understanding that pops up again and again when we meet our experiences, our lives, ourselves: this isn't it. It's a delusion that motivates us to discard and reject what is right in front of and within us, setting off on countless journeys and wanderings, seeking and searching, searching, searching. Understanding and exploring this one delusion can aid us in setting all delusions to rest. But make no mistake: its territory is tricky and the business therein as risky as ever, for though it is only one, it is still delusion after all, through and through.

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