Buddha Nature

In Buddhism, there is a concept of wholesomeness defined as the Buddha nature. The Buddha nature is an aspect of the self which, by Buddhist definition, is connected to the true, unchanging and eternal nature of all beings. If an individual can understand themselves to have a core state of being which is unchanging, at peace and connected to all things, they can begin to develop a relationship with it. Then, when choice presents, it’s a matter of evaluating the consequence of the choice beside the Buddha nature. If they are in resonance, crystal clarity and wholesomeness result.

When the driving force behind our choices and actions is wholesome, it naturally moves us in the direction of well-being and goodness which extends from us to others. When we understand what motivates us at a deeper level, it frees mental energy so clear decisions that promote and perpetuate well-being can be made. It is very difficult to make choices towards this when we are dazed, numb or hiding in hazy denial. 

We need to take time and consideration to understand our motivations. We are vulnerable to making choices that are not in others’ or our own best interest if we don’t take this time. As an example, if someone is driven to serve others solely to feel they are better than these others, that service is being used to fulfil their ego. This behaviour is thickly veiled in denial and lacks consideration of the individual’s deeper needs and also everyone else’s.

Without motivation and willpower, nothing can be achieved. However, misguided motivation creates confusion. Mental energy is the force behind motivation. It can be wholesome and unwholesome. The energy that can feed desire, envy, aggression and violence can also feed self-discipline, honesty, benevolence and kindness. Wholesome motivation prevents the rise of unwholesome states, quells unwholesome states already present, arouses wholesome states that haven’t yet emerged and maintains and perfects wholesome states already present.

Practicing the Buddha Nature is important if we want to create a life of wholesome, loving goodness and clarity.