For unenlightened people, Buddhahood and wisdom still exist, and vexation is still something to be eliminated. For enlightened people, there are no such things. However, that does not mean that practice is unnecessary. Practice diligently, but do not seek Buddhahood. While you practice, drop all notions of vexation and wisdom, enlightenment and Buddhahood. Do not be concerned with progressing or regressing. Simply practice for the sake of practice. Practicing with such an attitude is itself progress. And the next time you have the urge to ask when you will be enlightened, you don't have to ask me. Any block of wood will do.

Put down the four elements, do not cling to anything;
In this Nirvanic nature, feel free to eat and drink.
All phenomena are impermanent; all are empty.
This is the complete enlightenment of the Tathagata.


In your practice, you must put down the four elements: earth, fire, wind and water. People do not realize that all of their thoughts are associated with and dependent on the material phenomena of the external environment. All thoughts, dreams, concepts, symbols, images and language are associated directly or indirectly with the environment. Even if you sit in an empty room with your eyes closed, ears stuffed, nostrils plugged and lips shut, your mind will be active with thoughts and images of the external world. If you can let go of associations with material things, the thoughts in your mind will reduce drastically.