Dispelling the Clouds to See the Sun
Teachings from Master Shang Xuan Xia Zhuang
Recorded on August 7, 2019
Impermanence is the fundamental nature of our human world. It is a constant state of flux, where nothing remains the same for long. We see this change everywhere: in the depths of our own hearts, in our shifting thoughts, and in the ebb and flow of our emotions. We see it in the way we interact with others, in the turning of the four seasons, in the unpredictable shifts between heat and cold, and in the fragility of our physical bodies as we journey through birth, aging, sickness, and death.
The Unmoved Heart of the
Dark clouds may gather, but they will not cover the sun forever. There will always come a time when the clouds disperse, allowing the sun to shine through once more. Similarly, the surface of the ocean may not remain calm, and we may witness the rise of turbulent waves. Yet, whether the scenery is beautiful or stormy, and regardless of how the world changes or how time and space shift, my heart remains unmoved. The vow to save all beings and to bring them to the path of liberation remains eternal and unchanging.
The glory of the past is merely a chapter in the story of our lives. Once it passes, it becomes a phantom of existence. When the time comes for us to depart this world, we cannot take anything with us. The only things that follow us are the seeds of our actions—our . Who can truly know what their final thought will be? That final thought, and where it rests, will determine the destination for your next life. All things in this universe could potentially be your future, as we cycle through the six realms of existence.
The Order Within the Cycle
The six realms of existence and the ten directions of the Realm are woven into the very fabric of time and space. It may appear as a chaotic courtyard, yet it is governed by a precise and clear order. The Universal Principle, the Truth, and the Right Way have been operating for countless eons, from the distant past to the present moment. They never cease to function. Countless sentient beings are caught in this cycle of birth and death, wandering from one realm to another without rest. This is the true reality of our existence.
The Buddhas and Bodhisattvas are omnipresent. They are not limited by time or space. They reside within our hearts, within the storehouse of our , within the temple, within the smallest particles of dust, within the tracks of history, and throughout the vast expanse of the cosmos. They are present in every Buddha-land and wherever there is true faith—wherever beings share the same heart and the same vows as the Buddhas. By relying on the name of Namo Amituofo, we align ourselves with this eternal presence.
The Qualities of the Awakened
Wherever the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas are present, one can witness the profound qualities of those who have realised their true nature:
- : A vast mind-capacity that embraces all beings.Joyful Letting Go
- : The ability to give freely and release attachments.Seeing Through and Letting Go
- : A state of profound clarity and detachment.The Six Paramitas
- : The practice of the six perfections in daily life.Skillful Means
- : The ability to adapt to circumstances with wisdom.Dignity and Grace
- : Maintaining proper conduct and a gentle, upright demeanour.Bearing the Suffering of Others: Taking on the burdens of sentient beings to help them find peace.
Their state of being—unmoved and possessing boundless wisdom—is the manifestation of their success in meditative concentration. Their immeasurable and their complete Supernatural Freedom are used to teach and transform those who are stubborn, helping all beings leave suffering behind through the power of Generosity.
The Harmony of the Infinite Life Sutra
In The Infinite Life Sutra (The Buddha Speaks the , Infinite Life, Adornment, Purity, Impartiality, and Sutra), it is said that when the teachings are present, the entire world is transformed. The world becomes harmonious, the sun and moon shine clearly, and the weather follows its natural course. Disasters and illnesses do not arise, the nation is prosperous, and the people live in peace. There is no need for weapons, as virtue is honoured and kindness is promoted. People practise courtesy and humility, there is no theft, and no one suffers from injustice. The strong do not bully the weak.
This is the natural state of affairs because wherever the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas reside, there is the Truth. Within the Truth, there is no war, no destruction, and no competition. There is only mutual respect. When the people are taught and guided by these principles, they follow the righteous path. This leads to a harmonious environment where life is stable and secure. This is the precious value of the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas. If we are fortunate enough to encounter this priceless treasure in the human world, we must cherish and support it. By doing so, we turn misfortune into blessings and difficulty into peace, and the resulting blessings and wisdom are truly inconceivable.
Faith as the Key to Deliverance
As long as the people have true faith and provide sincere support, inviting the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas to teach in this world, we can transform disasters into auspiciousness. Within the , even in this present life, we can dispel the clouds of suffering and confusion to see the sun. We can find freedom and happiness, and furthermore, we can perform for all sentient beings, helping them to be reborn in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, which is the final home for our spirits.
On the path of spreading the Dharma, no matter what difficulties we encounter, everything is related to the laws of and cause and effect. If one has the vow to stand firm, especially the vow of those who have realised their true nature, it carries a powerful influence. When the power of one's vows and skills are fully realised, the dignity of one's presence inspires faith in all who see it. Even if one is misunderstood, the grace of one's conduct and the boundless heart of saving all beings will naturally inspire and transform the public. All doubts and misunderstandings will surely be resolved, and there will always be a time when the clouds part to reveal the sun.
This message was recorded by the Buddha's disciple, Venerable HaiZe.
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About the Author
Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre
Contributed to Pure Land Buddhism knowledge library