Deities and Faith
What is the age of Dharma decline, and does it mean good spiritual direction can no longer be found?
English translation draft · Based on the Chinese article. This is not a word-for-word translation approved by Master Shengyuan.
The age of Dharma decline does not necessarily mean the world's end is imminent. My main reminder is that religion can remain outwardly present while desire and power undermine its original purity and helpful purpose. The point is not first setting dates for its beginning and end.
I have described this as a demon wearing the Buddha's robes. Religious clothing or titles do not necessarily mean appropriate character within. Buddhism, Taoism, Catholicism, and Christianity can all have harmful groups or teachers. Faith should teach gratitude and kinder treatment of others. Using it only to satisfy desire departs from that meaning.
Another concern is abundant information without sufficient wisdom to distinguish it. After meeting a harmful teacher, people may decide all religion is fraudulent. Eventually even virtuous teachers who genuinely understand and willingly teach are doubted, leaving people unable to find a direction they can trust and learn from.
So develop judgment and begin correcting the human heart. Start with yourself, then influence nearby family and friends so matters gradually move positively. Discussing decline does not ask people to sit awaiting destruction. Our hope then was also for a new bright beginning after disorder.