When the candle flame flutters weakly and there is no sound on earth, it is time for us to go to sleep.
In the dawn, when one has just woken from sleep and nothing is yet astir, it is time for us to start the day with a sober mind.
If we take advantage of such a time to reflect upon ourselves, like sunlight shining on our souls, we will then realise that our ears, eyes, mouths and noses are fetters upon our understanding, and that our carnal desires and addictions are instruments for confusing our true natures.
一灯萤然，万籁无声，此吾人初入宴寂时也；晓梦初醒，群动未起，此吾人初出混沌处也。乘此而一念回光，炯然返照，始知耳口鼻皆桎梏，而情欲嗜好悉机械矣。
Notes
Only in moments of detachment from external distractions and mental clarity can one truly turn inward. Through this inner contemplation, we recognize how senses and desires imprison the soul — humans fancy themselves masters, yet remain shackled by their cravings.
The mind’s bondage springs from unconscious servitude to senses and desires; liberation begins with conscious self-reflection in clarity’s fleeting light.
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