The next question naturally arises: how do we achieve awakening? The answer is Madhyamaka. It is the key to awakening and beyond. Firstly, the study and contemplation of Madhyamaka is a shortcut to attaining initial awakening. Secondly, it can serve as a preliminary practice and foundation for effectively receiving the pointing-out instruction in Dzogchen.
However, we should be aware that gaining awakening is not an easy task and may take years of dedicated practice. Nevertheless, by continually studying and practicing Madhyamaka, even if we haven't fully experienced awakening, we can still gain an understanding of Mere Emptiness, which is invaluable for a sincere dharma practitioner.
Dedication to the path and the cultivation of Renunciation and Bodhicitta serve as a solid foundation for the pursuit of awakening. Through the study and practice of Correct View of Emptiness, one can increase the chances of achieving awakening in this lifetime. While the journey may be arduous and may take years of dedicated practice, the constant study and practice of Madhyamaka can offer a practitioner an experience of the Mere Emptiness, a valuable experience on the path to awakening.
The Mere Emptiness may not be Emptiness itself, but it serves as a steppingstone towards it. As one's experience of Mere Emptiness deepens, it signifies a higher level of Bodhicitta. If one's guru bestows the pointing-out instruction, awakening may be achieved with just a word or a few words. However, if not, one can continue practicing with diligence and eventually achieve awakening.
Attaining awakening is an exceptional achievement, especially for those practicing Tibetan Buddhism, as it offers the possibility of transcending the cyclic existence forever and attaining Buddhahood in the stage of bardo. In this age of the five corruptions, where human life is limited to about a hundred years, achieving awakening holds significant importance. In contrast, worldly pursuits like accumulating wealth or seeking power pale in comparison.
While it may sound like a fairy tale or superstition to non-Buddhists, the merit accumulated from dharma practice holds immense value to a genuine dharma practitioner. The merit of Buddhadharma is immeasurable and offers the possibility of achieving awakening, the most meaningful pursuit in life. It is crucial to study and practice seriously before drawing any conclusions, as ignorance may be a curse or a bliss depending on one's understanding. A genuine belief stands in stark contrast to superstition, and there is no room for the latter in a practitioner's pursuit of the path.
The study of Madhyamaka is the foundation for our contemplation and meditative practice. We must begin with a thorough study of the texts and commentaries by authentic masters. It is not enough to simply read the texts or listen to teachings; we must investigate the meaning of the words and concepts, ask questions, and seek clarification. We should also compare different commentaries and understand the context in which they were written.
However, we must be cautious not to fall into the trap of intellectualism. Mere knowledge does not lead to awakening; it is the practical application of the knowledge that counts. Therefore, after studying the texts, we must engage in contemplation, using logical reasoning to examine and understand the teachings. We should question our assumptions, challenge our beliefs, and analyze our own experiences.
Finally, we must engage in meditative practice to actualize our understanding. We must cultivate single-pointed concentration and use specific methods to generate insight into the nature of reality. It is only through this process of study, contemplation, and meditative practice that we can gain an experiential understanding of Emptiness and achieve awakening.
Excerpted from: The Relationship Between Buddhist Theory and Practice
