05/05/2026
The Buddha taught about buddha nature. If you study this in The Jewel Ornament of Liberation, it is explained as the preliminary cause.
Every sentient being has buddha nature.
First of all, what is buddha nature? Buddha nature itself, under any circumstances --- whether being believed or not believed, whether known or not known --- is uncontrived, unfabricated, as it is. That very nature is undefiled peace; it is total peace.
Because of this, when you experience some peace or happiness in your mind, you feel naturally comfortable with it.
And since buddha nature is free from all suffering by its very nature, when suffering arises, physically or mentally, we do not want to remain in it. It always feels uncomfortable. No matter how much suffering there is, you never get used to it. Even in the hell realms for countless kalpas of suffering, you never become comfortable. This shows that buddha nature is free from suffering.
Buddha nature is the preliminary cause because it is already present within you, and studying and practicing the Dharma can lead you to be free from suffering. So what I am sharing with you is extremely precious.
~ Khenchen Konchog Gyaltsen Rinpoche, Teaching on The Jewel Ornament of Liberation: Chapter 11, Day 1, Alor Star, Malaysia