Are body, speech, and mind in harmony if you help someone but express contempt for them?

They are not yet in harmony. Helping through your actions is only one part; what you say and think also needs attention. I explain Master Ji Gong's reminders about doing good and accumulating virtue through body, speech, and mind: care for your body and conduct, pay attention to your words, and examine your thoughts. One good action does not establish that your entire intention is sound.

For example, going over to help someone who has fallen is helpful action. But whether you complain about their smell while lifting them or show concern about possible injuries will make a very different impression on them. If your hands are helping but your words humiliate, you still need to learn how to speak.

Then examine your thoughts. Do you genuinely care about the person, or are you first wondering whether helping will bring a red envelope or some other benefit? Giving in order to please someone and achieve your own purpose differs in intention from seeing someone in difficulty and being willing to spend time and effort helping. You cannot understand the whole intention simply by looking at what was given or how much was done.

Each time you help, consider whether all three aspects are present together: your actions help, your words show concern without stirring up conflict, and your thoughts contain less self-interest and more consideration for the other person. Thoughts influence behavior and can become habits over time, so work on these aspects gradually, one by one.

I have also given the example of sincerely reciting scriptures but constantly complaining and scolding after returning home. If you want to learn from the Bodhisattva while reciting but do not apply it to your speech and treatment of people in daily life, something still needs correction. Good deeds cannot replace the work of cultivating speech. Even if you appear admirable, examine whether you only want others' approval, or even lie to maintain that appearance. Spiritual practice should gradually bring what you think, say, and do together.