Spiritual Cultivation and Movement
Does a spiritual teacher saying 'I don't know' show a lack of ability, and are more detailed stories more credible?
English translation draft · Based on the Chinese article. This is not a word-for-word translation approved by Master Shengyuan.
A person who communicates spiritually saying they do not know does not mean they lack ability. If they perceive only part of something, they should clearly state how much they perceive. There is no need to fill in unseen parts just to make a complete story.
When discussing animal communication, Dao Xuan said it was more like sensing discomfort, sadness, or a particular need, rather than hearing a complete human conversation every time. Messages about past and present lives also do not necessarily include a dynasty, clothing, or appearance. Someone wanting many details does not mean we actually know them.
I even improvised a story about an old man in gray on the spot, deliberately showing how vivid storytelling alone can make someone seem impressive. It was a demonstration of making up a story, not an old man I actually saw. An appealing story needs to be distinguished from whether its contents are trustworthy and can help people gain wisdom. Saying only what we perceive and admitting what we do not know prevents imagination from becoming an account of someone else's life.