Aging and the Eternal Nature

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

September 29, 2023

The Three Dimensions of Aging

Aging is not merely a matter of the number of years one has lived. To truly understand the process of aging, we must examine it through the three distinct dimensions of our existence: the body, the heart, and the spirit.

When we speak of the aging of the body, we are referring to the natural decline that occurs even in the absence of specific illness. This manifests as the gradual loss of function in our internal organs and limbs, a noticeable decrease in physical strength and vitality, and the increasing difficulty in managing one's own daily needs, eventually leading to the loss of the ability to care for oneself in daily life.

The aging of the heart is perhaps more subtle, yet equally profound. It is often characterised by a lack of motivation and a sense of listlessness. One may find that days pass by without purpose, as if one is simply waiting for the arrival of death. This state often arises because one does not yet realise the immense benefits of chanting Buddha's name. Even if one is aware of the practice, the heart may find it difficult to maintain the Buddha-name, or the practice may be easily interrupted by the distractions of daily life.

The Mystery of the Spirit

The aging of the spirit is a deeper matter. In our tradition, it is understood that the three hun souls and seven po souls should reside within the physical body. We must ask ourselves: are these components of our spirit still present within us? The main soul is inherently present within the body, coexisting with it throughout our life. When this main soul leaves the body, it signifies the separation of the four elements and the moment of death.

However, there are other reasons why the body-soul, the consciousness-soul, and the seven po souls may depart from the physical form. This can occur due to attachment, a drowsy state, or drifting into other spaces, which causes these spiritual components to remain in those spaces rather than returning to the body. If these two souls and seven po souls are absent or diminished, the individual will inevitably experience a lack of mental clarity, slow reactions, difficulty concentrating, persistent drowsiness, and the tendency to drift into other spaces.

True Cultivation and the Path to Eternal Youth

If you wish to remain eternally youthful in your practice, you must first realise that this body is merely a temporary dwelling place for your heart and spirit. Everything you encounter and every relationship you form is governed by the law of Causal Conditions. These are phenomena that arise and cease; they are illusions that vanish once their time has passed. Do not grasp at them tightly; instead, learn to let go.

If you cling to these conditions, you are effectively clinging to karma. Because these conditions are manifestations of the cycle of reincarnated existence, you must be willing to let them go. We engage in True Cultivation by using this limited, time-bound body to seek and rediscover our true self. It is a fundamental truth that without this physical body, we would lack the necessary vessel to practise and return to our original nature.

Signs of Vitality

How, then, can we recognise the state of not aging? We can observe this through the three dimensions of our being. In the body, the physical form and limbs function well, free from pain or illness. The body remains upright and strong, and one is fully capable of managing all aspects of daily life. In the heart, one is filled with confidence in life. You understand that while this physical life is limited, your spiritual life is infinite.

In the spirit, the three hun souls and seven po souls are firmly within the body, resulting in a focused mind, quick reactions, and a state of being that is neither scattered nor forgetful. For those who chant Buddha's name, this vitality is especially evident. You can use this body to serve the community, engage in diligent practice, arouse the Bodhi mind and single-mindedly recite Namo Amituofo, and make the vow to be reborn in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. By setting this as your ultimate goal, you will find that every day is filled with spirit, energy, and purpose, and you will no longer be trapped in the cycle of reincarnated existence. I offer these situations so that you may reflect upon your own state and determine whether you are experiencing the signs of aging.

Namo Amituofo.