The Obstacle of Letters Arises from Deficient Concentration and Wisdom

We must engage in deep contemplation, analysis, and research into the meanings of Chinese characters to grasp their true essence. Only those unhindered by textual barriers can easily comprehend the Dharma correctly and continuously give rise to wisdom. Those hindered by textual obstacles, when reading a passage, fail to grasp its essential meaning, often misinterpret it, and find their wisdom unable to increase. In interactions among sentient beings, if obstacles exist in understanding language and words, leading to mutual incomprehension and failed communication, then interactions become filled with distress and helplessness. People who accurately comprehend others' intentions generally face fewer linguistic barriers, are adept at discerning others' mental states, communicate easily with others, and thus encounter fewer obstacles in their interactions.

Individuals vary greatly in their level of textual comprehension. Why do some people have such a low level of understanding? The core issues lie in a coarse and inattentive mind, a lack of samadhi power, absence of wisdom, and deficient merit and virtue. The text clearly does not carry a particular meaning, yet some people insist on interpreting it that way. They refuse to reflect inwardly upon themselves or engage in introspection. Many only scrutinize others, not themselves, which is a manifestation of heavy ego-attachment. Then, convinced of their own correctness, they unhesitatingly negate others and engage in debate. This impulsiveness precisely indicates a lack of meditative stability (samadhi), an absence of wisdom, and an inability to introspect or correctly evaluate oneself and others. A wise person possesses a very meticulous mind, capable of observing others as they truly are and also engaging in genuine self-reflection. A lack of observational power and introspective ability signifies poor samadhi power and insufficient wisdom.