Carrying Forward the Wisdom of the Ancient Sages

The Foundation of Ethics and Morality

Confucian thought has exerted a direct and profound influence on the Chinese people, shaping our collective understanding of Ethics and Morality, as well as the spirit of universal love. The ancient aspiration to carry on the lost teachings of the ancient sages and to create peace for all generations encapsulates the very essence of Confucian education. This path guides us through a structured process of self-improvement: we must first cultivate the self, then regulate the family, govern the state, and finally bring peace to the world. These principles serve as a vital compass, leading the masses toward a life of integrity and purpose.

The Depth of Buddhist Education

Within the three traditional schools of thought—Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism—Buddhist studies represent a comprehensive education in the laws of karma and cause and effect. This education goes far beyond worldly ethics. It places a supreme emphasis on cultivating the mind and purification, which is essential for elevating our Body-Mind-Spirit. By following this path, we are led to recognise Namo Amituofo and the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. Through this connection, we are empowered to achieve Awakening and realise one's true nature and attain Buddhahood.

Expanding Our Vision to the Dharma Realm

Buddhist education does not merely focus on the individual; it expands our perspective from the personal, the family, the nation, and the world, to the entire Dharma Realm and the vast universe. When we truly understand the Universal Principles, Truth, and the Right Path, we naturally align our actions with them, ensuring we do not violate these sacred laws. This education covers the most critical aspects of our existence:

• The profound Universal Principles that govern all reality.
• The systematic elevation of our own Body-Mind-Spirit.
• The resolution of the ultimate matter of life and death.
• The ability to transcend the cycle of birth and death and exit the Three Realms.
• The attainment of rebirth in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss.
• The ultimate achievement of Buddhahood.

The Technology of the Human Body

For those who engage in Pure Land practice and follow the teachings diligently, the path opens up space in ways that are truly extraordinary. Practitioners may gain the ability to interact with beings from various spiritual realms and even demon crowds. This interaction allows us to recognise the reality of the spiritual realms and to treat all beings with profound respect, for we understand that every single being possesses the potential to become a Buddha. Furthermore, this practice helps us develop our own spirits and the capabilities of our Six Roots. We begin to realise that the human body itself is the most advanced technology of all, a vessel of infinite potential.

The Eternal Lineage of the Dharma

All these profound truths are contained within the scope of Buddhist education. Through the medium of lectures, those who hear and see these teachings are encouraged to make vows and put them into practice, thereby making steady progress and receiving the benefits of the Dharma. To carry on the lost teachings of the ancient sages, in the context of the Buddha’s teachings, means to inherit the Dharma and to ensure the continuity of the Dharma Body and the wisdom-life. We must integrate this into our view of the Dharma Realm and our view of the universe, eventually merging it into the boundless and infinite true self. Namo Amituofo.