Adjusting the State of Mind

Recorded and transcribed by Namo Amituofo’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe.

Words of Namo Amituofo:

The Swaying Mind

Before one reaches the state of an awakened being or attains deep meditative concentration, the heart is easily influenced by the external world. We often find ourselves in a state where our hearts are turned by external circumstances, which is a source of great suffering. This happens because we have not yet gained the ability to be the master of our own minds. When we are not in control, we are merely drifting with the currents of our environment.

If you find yourself in a position where you have the power to influence your external environment, you must be extremely cautious. You must remain mindful of the karmic conditions and the causes and effects that govern all existence. It is essential to understand that every action carries a consequence, and we are responsible for the seeds we plant in this world.

The Weight of Our Intentions

The path of practice requires a clear understanding of how we interact with the world. Consider these fundamental principles:

• Cultivate Goodness: When you create a good cause, you will naturally receive a good result. Focus your energy on actions that benefit others.
• Cease Negative Causes: If you identify a negative cause, you must stop it immediately. Do not allow it to take root in your life.
• Guard Your Thoughts: Even the most subtle thought or intention must be monitored. Do not allow negative thoughts to arise, for they are the precursors to negative actions.

When you hear the words of the Buddha, you should receive them with deep respect and joy. Listen to these teachings, change your ways, and you will certainly reap the rewards of your efforts.

The Remedy of the Buddha-Name

You must maintain your awareness at all times. In every moment, ask yourself whether your current thought or intention is rooted in goodness or in negativity. If you find that a thought is negative, stop it immediately. If it is good, then you may proceed. The distinction between a good thought and an evil thought is simple yet profound:

• Goodness: A thought is good when it is focused on the well-being of all beings.
• Evil: A thought is evil when it is focused solely on self-interest and personal gain.

Chanting Namo Amituofo is a practice of pure, unadulterated goodness. When you find that you cannot suppress your delusion, discrimination, and attachment, you must immediately turn to the Buddha-name. Through the Buddha's blessings, your chanting will become continuous. This is the most effective method to subdue the internal chaos of delusion, discrimination, and attachment. It is the ultimate remedy for those who wish to stop their suffering, alleviate their anxiety, and adjust their state of mind.

A Constant Practice for All

Whether you are a layperson, a practitioner of the Pure Land school, or a student of the Buddha, you should make good use of this method. You can adjust your state of mind at any time and in any place. There are no restrictions on when or where you can practise. You can chant Namo Amituofo 24/7, whether you are standing, sitting, walking, or lying down.

By constantly adjusting your mind to enter a state of goodness and purity, you will naturally begin to see the good, think the good, do the good, and speak the good. Your actions will follow this transformation, and your spirit will find true stability. This is an indispensable and wonderful method for anyone who wishes to succeed in their practice of chanting Namo Amituofo.

Namo Amituofo