Correcting Body and Mind

Words of Namo Amituofo, recorded by the chief writer, Venerable HaiZe, on the fifteenth of May, 2022.

The Dignity of Conduct

Correcting your heart and your physical conduct is the fundamental duty of every disciple of the Buddha. Dignity is not merely a set of external rules; it is the natural expression of a heart that is inwardly supported by compassion. Whether you are walking, standing, sitting, or resting, your movements should reflect this inner peace. When you speak, do so with a gentle voice, for the bodhimanda is a place that requires silence and reverence.

Even the youngest among us must learn to observe these rules. Children should be guided to remain quiet, as loud crying or playing disrupts the quiet retreats of those who are diligently practising. It is truly inappropriate to disturb the peace of the temple, and such actions should be avoided at all costs.

The Foundation of Sincerity

You must listen well to the words of Practitioner Su. Receive his guidance with a heart of gratitude, for he offers you the path to liberation. Do not harbour anger, and never act against those who teach you, for there are profound laws of karma and cause and effect at work in every interaction. If you allow resentment to take root, you create obstacles for your own spiritual progress.

During our daily morning service, when we recite the Sutras or offer incense, we must move in perfect unison. Whether you are sitting or kneeling, your heart must be filled with absolute sincerity and respect. Never allow yourself to lose your dignified appearance, as your posture reflects the state of your mind.

Respect for the Dharma

When you attend lectures to hear the Dharma, you must arrive early. If you only arrive after Practitioner Su has already begun, you are late, and you must resolve to correct this habit. Sincerity is the only key to receiving the benefits of the teachings:

• One part sincerity brings one part benefit.
• Five parts sincerity brings five parts benefit.
• Ten parts sincerity brings ten parts benefit.

This is how you show respect for the teacher and the Dharma. This is the true heart of one who comes to invite the wisdom of the Buddhas.

Unity in the Fragrant Light Community

Within the lecture hall, always speak in a soft, respectful tone. If you must remind others of the rules, do so gently. In the Daliao, we must also practise mutual respect. If there is resentment that has piled up like a mountain, it must be resolved through communication and understanding.

If your conduct or your thoughts are not in line with the teachings, you must be willing to adjust them at any moment. Do not be displeased when you are corrected; instead, be deeply grateful for the guidance that helps you stop your errors. Let the fourfold assembly of disciples work with one heart. Together, let us move forward in the Fragrant Light.

Namo Amituofo