Arising from the Heart: Teachings of Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju

The Tapestry of Mind and Appearance

The myriad spirits and the myriad hearts of all beings give rise to the myriad appearances of this world. This is the nature of the mind that is caught in the cycle of rebirth. When we allow our minds to wander in confusion, we create a world of suffering and illusion. However, if you can bring these myriad hearts into one unified whole, you will realise that appearance arises from the mind and that all things share a single, interconnected essence. This is the compassionate action of the Buddha-heart, which sees no separation between self and others.

The Law of the Universe

This is the natural state of the universe, a truth that cannot be replaced or achieved by any external force. Everything arises from the heart. The Universal Principle, the Truth, and the Right Way operates in this way, and all hearts and all appearances follow this law. When you adjust your heart and transform your thoughts, the appearances of your world will transform accordingly. To turn from evil toward goodness is your immediate duty. You must put in the work to elevate your awareness and refine your spirit.

The Refinement of the Awakened Spirit

To fall from goodness into evil is to be stained by the dust of the world. You must stay away from evil, do not let yourself be tainted, and be vigilant from the very first thought that arises in your mind. Purify your goodness, then purify it again, and let goodness flourish within you. In this way, you will enter the state of an awakened being naturally. The myriad hearts of samsara will be transformed into the Buddha-heart.

The Boundless Compassion of the Pure Land

Compassion, compassion, and yet more compassion! This is the compassionate heart of Amitabha. It is a boundless, infinite compassion that built the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss—the final destination for all spirits and beings who seek to leave suffering behind. Remember, you must hold firmly to the sacred name of Namo Amituofo! Chant Namo Amituofo, Namo Amituofo without ceasing. Let your heart be like Amitabha, and let your actions be like Amitabha. By maintaining this constant practice, you shall surely enter the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. Namo Amituofo.