Starting Spiritual Practice
Does speaking of becoming 'beyond human' in practice mean rejecting human responsibilities?
English translation draft · Based on the Chinese article. This is not a word-for-word translation approved by Master Shengyuan.
No. Speaking of a state 'beyond human' means broadening our outlook, learning the wisdom and character of the deities and Buddhas, and moving toward becoming an immortal or Buddha. It means looking beyond immediate personal interests, not abandoning ordinary human responsibilities.
Master Ji Gong has said he never told people not to honor their parents: that is basic human conduct, as is keeping one's word. Correcting harmful habits, moving from laziness to initiative, and becoming better people remain necessary. Sheng Zhen Men's direction of practice also goes beyond daily changes into thoughts and the soul, bringing character and thinking closer to the deities and Buddhas we learn from.
For example, we discussed news of someone rescuing people at the shore, willingly bearing hardship for strangers without family or emotional ties. This illustrates what I mean by 'beyond human.' The deities consider how to give for living beings. A vow toward that state also requires learning compassion and great vows in daily life, extending beyond thinking only of ourselves.