Today's Word

We Must Let Go of Both Mind and Objects

2026 . 02 . 05

The Seonga Gwibeom teaches that ordinary beings are pulled along by the objects of reality, practitioners try to hold only to the mind, and the true Dharma lies in letting go of both mind and objects.

We are shaken by outer situations, and even while saying we are studying the mind, we may also hold tightly to the thoughts and emotions that arise. But if we are pulled by objects, or if we grasp the mind, we are not yet free.

To let things be does not mean to leave them carelessly unattended. It means to be aware of both reality and mind, without being bound to them, and to see the original place.

Today too, may you not grasp outer affairs or the mind's noise, but learn deeper freedom through the practice of letting both go.

When we abide neither in objects nor in mind, the true Dharma is revealed.

We are shaken by outer situations, and even while saying we are studying the mind, we may also hold tightly to the thoughts and emotions that arise. But if we are pulled by objects, or if we grasp the mind, we are not yet free. To let things be does not mean to leave them carelessly unattended. It means to be aware of both reality and mind, without being bound to them, and to see the original place.

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Let Go of Both Mind and Objects
We Must Let Go of Both Mind and Objects cartoon
The main character struggles with two loads: outer affairs and mind.
Hyedal Sunim invites both burdens to be set down.
As the loads rest down, a quiet path appears underfoot.
Thoughts and objects pass, but the center is not lost.
With empty hands, the main character walks more lightly.
When we abide neither in objects nor in mind, the true Dharma is revealed.