Meaning: The quote "People who don't see their nature and imagine they can practice thoughtlessness all the time are lairs and fools" is attributed to Bodhidharma, a Buddhist monk who lived during the 5th or 6th century AD. Bodhidharma is traditionally credited as the transmitter of Chan Buddhism to China, which later became Zen in Japan. He is also considered the first patriarch of Chan Buddhism. The quote reflects Bodhidharma's teachings on self-awareness, mindfulness, and the nature of thought.

Bodhidharma's teachings emphasize the importance of understanding one's true nature and the perils of trying to practice thoughtlessness. According to Bodhidharma, individuals who are unaware of their true nature and believe they can achieve a state of thoughtlessness are deceiving themselves and acting foolishly. This concept is deeply rooted in the Buddhist philosophy of self-awareness, mindfulness, and the nature of consciousness.

The notion of "seeing one's nature" is central to Bodhidharma's teachings. In Buddhism, the concept of "seeing one's nature" refers to the understanding and realization of one's true self, beyond the illusions and distractions of the mind. It involves introspection, self-inquiry, and the recognition of the impermanent and interconnected nature of all things. By "seeing their nature," individuals can gain insight into the workings of their own minds and the nature of existence itself.

The idea of practicing thoughtlessness is often misunderstood in the context of Bodhidharma's teachings. Rather than advocating for a complete absence of thought, Bodhidharma's teachings suggest a balanced and mindful approach to thought. The practice of mindfulness, as taught in Buddhism, involves being fully present and aware of one's thoughts, emotions, and sensations without attachment or aversion. It does not entail suppressing or eliminating thoughts altogether but rather cultivating a non-judgmental awareness of the present moment.

Bodhidharma's admonition against the delusion of practicing thoughtlessness all the time is a caution against the misconception that true spiritual attainment involves the eradication of thoughts. Instead, it underscores the importance of understanding the nature of thought and the potential pitfalls of pursuing an unrealistic and unsustainable goal. By recognizing the futility of striving for perpetual thoughtlessness, individuals can redirect their efforts towards cultivating mindfulness and self-awareness in their daily lives.

In the context of Bodhidharma's quote, the terms "lairs" and "fools" serve as stark reminders of the consequences of deluding oneself about the nature of spiritual practice. Those who deceive themselves into believing they can exist in a state of perpetual thoughtlessness are likened to "lairs" – individuals who engage in deceit and falsehood. Similarly, those who persist in this delusion despite its inherent folly are labeled as "fools," highlighting the misguided nature of their pursuit.

Bodhidharma's teachings continue to resonate with practitioners of Buddhism and mindfulness traditions, serving as a reminder of the importance of self-awareness, discernment, and the cultivation of a balanced mind. The quote encapsulates the timeless wisdom of seeing one's nature and the pitfalls of pursuing an unattainable state of thoughtlessness, offering valuable insights for those on the path of self-discovery and spiritual growth.

In conclusion, Bodhidharma's quote "People who don't see their nature and imagine they can practice thoughtlessness all the time are lairs and fools" encapsulates the essence of his teachings on self-awareness, mindfulness, and the nature of thought. It serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of understanding one's true nature and the perils of chasing an illusionary state of thoughtlessness. Through introspection and mindfulness, individuals can heed Bodhidharma's admonition and cultivate a deeper understanding of their own minds and the nature of existence.