Theoretical Research Is Not the Path of Spiritual Practice

There is a prevailing malpractice in contemporary Buddhism that places undue emphasis on theoretical knowledge alone. It is believed that the more theoretical knowledge one acquires, the better. If one can possess extensive knowledge, it is considered excellent and a source of pride. If one can write several articles or books, it is seen as even more commendable and pride-worthy. However, whether this theoretical knowledge can guide and regulate one's physical, verbal, and mental actions, whether it can transform the mental activities of the seventh consciousness, whether it can purify one's mind and reduce ignorance, or whether it can bring genuine benefits—all these are disregarded. Instead, it is glorified with the claim that a bodhisattva need not concern themselves with afflictions, asserting that with correct views, afflictions will naturally cease at the appropriate time.

Yet the reality is not so. Mere theoretical knowledge, mere intellectual understanding, is perpetually futile in addressing afflictions. The destination after death is determined by the manifestation of greed, hatred, and delusion—by the karmic actions created by these afflictions—not by theoretical knowledge or intellectual understanding of the Dharma. Therefore, this issue is of utmost importance, and every Buddhist practitioner should take it seriously, not treating it lightly.

Theory and intellectual understanding are like cooking recipes. One may study several cookbooks but never step into the kitchen to cook, nor even select or combine ingredients. Can the acquired culinary knowledge or understanding solve the problem of hunger? Spending precious time and energy researching repeatedly, then authoring books and recruiting disciples, may lead to fame and prominence, yet one still suffers from hunger, possessing only an empty facade. For example, a child may study from elementary school through university, graduate studies, doctoral studies, and even post-doctoral research, acquiring only theoretical knowledge. While university-level studies might involve some research and experimentation, yielding a degree of empirical evidence, the knowledge acquired before university remains purely theoretical. Such knowledge cannot be directly applied to production processes; it requires an intermediate stage of internship and practical application to transform knowledge into productive capacity.

Learning the Buddha Dharma must likewise be applied to life within the five aggregates. This requires continuously upholding precepts and cultivating meditative concentration. Within profound meditative absorption, one must diligently investigate, connecting with one's own five aggregates and linking to physical, verbal, and mental actions. Only then can theory be put into practice, enabling diligent personal verification and realization, dispelling ignorance, increasing genuine wisdom, and transforming body and mind. Only through such practice can one achieve accomplishment, gain genuine benefit, and walk the true path.