12/10/2026
We should not listen to or practise the Dharma with a low motivation, such as seeking health, wealth, long life, status or even a favourable rebirth. When we treat the Dharma which is a precious jewel in this way, we lose sight of its true purpose. Instead we should always aim for the highest goal — full enlightenment for the benefit of all beings.
When this highest motivation is present, every effort in Dharma practice becomes meaningful. Even travelling to a teaching, preparing to attend, listening and returning home all become part of Dharma practice. The whole process becomes a cause for accumulating merit.
However, if the motivation is low, such as seeking worldly gain, social connection or comfort, then it becomes a worldly practice. Our actions become worldly actions and do not lead to enlightenment. It is not the action that makes it Dharma. It is the motivation behind the action.
Therefore, we should develop a strong motivation from the heart. “I will listen to the Dharma to remove the negativities of my mind, which create negative actions and speech, and bring suffering to myself and others. I will listen to the Dharma to attain full Enlightenment.”
With this motivation, listening to the Dharma becomes a Dharmic activity. A high motivation creates merit that leads to enlightenment. A low motivation creates good karma that leads only to temporary happiness and rebirth. Therefore, motivation is crucial.
Tsem Rinpoche
Extracted from 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘓𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘉𝘶𝘥𝘥𝘩𝘢 𝘞𝘪𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯
𝙍𝙚𝙖𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙗𝙤𝙤𝙠 →
vajrasecrets.com/products/the-living-buddha-within-ebook
