An Empty Heart Holds the Infinite
Amitabha Buddha's discourse
Recorded and transcribed by Namo Amituofo’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe, on 20 December 2025
The Original Nature of the Heart
Originally, your heart is empty, containing nothing at all. It is like a vast, clear space where the light of your true nature shines brilliantly, illuminating the entire universe. However, because a single thought of confusion arises, the world becomes filled with endless disturbances that enter your heart. These disturbances cover your original, empty state. You no longer see the light of your true nature; instead, you see only the fog of delusion. Layer upon layer of filth accumulates, and you drift further and further away from your original, pristine self.
The Illusion of Reality
When you mistake the false for the true, you are acting in delusion. To see the false and recognise it as false, without allowing it to obstruct your heart, is to maintain a state of clarity and truth. When you truly see, you see through everything immediately. This is the clarity of your original nature—a state where there are no obstacles, and you see the truth directly. When your heart is stained, the light of your heart becomes dim. You cannot see the light, you cannot see your original nature, and you cannot see the truth, which leads to total disorientation. You are like a person lost in a thick fog, searching for an exit. You wander in circles, unable to find the way out. You may ask, when will you ever see the light again?
Clearing the Fog with the Holy Name
The fog can be dispelled, and you can see clearly once more. If the light of your heart is revealed, the fog will naturally dissipate, and the exit will appear right before your eyes. You must chant the holy name of Namo Amituofo continuously. This is the power of the Buddha’s compassionate grace, which descends upon you to sweep away the stains and filth within your heart. Even if the disturbances of the world remain, if your heart is in sync with the Buddha, your will not manifest, and you will return to a state of purity.
Navigating the World with Wisdom
We live in the Five Turbidities and Evil World. In this environment, the dual power of your own practice and the Buddha’s grace work together to stop the manifestation of negative karma. As you walk this path, you will encounter the opinions of others. You must learn how to respond with a heart that is not moved by external praise or blame:
- When others praise you: Do not become joyful or arrogant. Instead, feel gratitude for their words and use them as a reminder to remain vigilant. Do not become complacent; continue to work hard and make further progress.
- When others criticise you: Do not harbour anger or resentment. Remember that your past anger created countless karmic debts. Use this opportunity to quickly correct your mistakes and transform your personality.
Embracing the Infinite
Your practice must be one of purification, and then more purification. By doing so, you will eventually see your original, empty nature. When your heart is empty, it can hold the infinite. This is the true meaning of following Namo Amituofo—to save all boundless suffering sentient beings. You are one of these beings, and you must be the first to be saved within this process. By saving yourself, you gain the capacity to help others leave suffering behind and find true happiness.
Namo Amituofo
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Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre
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