Diligence and the Steady Heart

Teachings from Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju, recorded by Venerable HaiZe.

On the seventh of January, 2023, during the third session of the Thrice Yearning Ceremony, Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju provided the following guidance on the path of practice.

The Foundation of Diligent Practice

When you embark upon the path of practice, you must first establish a firm and clear goal. It is not enough to merely hold an intention in your mind; you must translate that intention into concrete, daily actions and strive with all your heart to achieve it. This process of diligent practice is not merely a task to be completed, but a journey that brings a profound sense of stability to your heart. As you move forward through this diligence, your steps become firm, steady, and unwavering, regardless of the challenges that may arise in your external environment.

The Responsibility of the Fourfold Assembly

At the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre, diligent practice is more than a personal pursuit; it is a sacred responsibility. It is a duty we owe to all suffering beings who are still trapped in the cycle of rebirth. When you reside in this sacred Buddha-land and wear the robes of a practitioner, you are under the direct care of Namo Amituofo, who acts as the great parent and compassionate father to the fourfold assembly. Therefore, you must follow the footsteps of Namo Amituofo with complete sincerity and trust.

The Work of Deliverance and Purification

In these times, Namo Amituofo and Practitioner Su are working tirelessly, at every moment, to invite spirits, resolve conflicts, and perform Chao Du to deliver sentient beings. Their work is vast and encompasses many layers of spiritual healing:

• Saving the karmic creditors who have followed us from past lives.
• Clearing away attached spirits that reside within our bodies.
• Resolving the influence of demon crowds that seek to disrupt our peace.

Their ultimate hope is that, under these conditions of purification and free from interference, you can truly put your diligent practice into action. Without this clarity, your efforts may be scattered; with it, your path becomes clear.

Living the Buddha's Name

The most essential task is to chant Buddha's name. But you must ask yourself: how is your chanting? Is Namo Amituofo truly present in your heart? If you can keep the Buddha in your heart, on your lips, and within your every action 24/7, then you are truly embodying the Buddha-heart, the Buddha-mind, and Buddha-actions. When everything you do is conducted within the light of the Buddha-vow, you will certainly receive the Buddha's blessings. Through this diligent practice, your heart will remain steady, and you will successfully find your way back to your true self.

Namo Amituofo