From the Cycle of Rebirth to Ultimate Liberation

This is a record of an interview with Lay Practitioner Ma Taiping, the elder brother of Lay Practitioner Ma Dalong. He sought deliverance at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia and now resides in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. This account reflects upon his journey of transformation and his final liberation. Recorded by the chief writer, Shi Faxi, on February 18, 2022.

Lay Practitioner Ma Taiping speaks:

"Namo Amituofo. I am filled with gratitude—infinite gratitude. I wish to express my deepest thanks to the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia, to Practitioner Su, to every Venerable, and to the entire fourfold assembly of disciples. I am profoundly grateful for the Causal Conditions that have allowed me to attain rebirth in the Western Pure Land. This is a moment I cherish beyond words. I will continue my diligent practice, and I hold a sincere vow that one day, I too will be able to help save the world.

The Illusion of Life and the Cycle of Rebirth

Throughout my life, I often reflected deeply on the nature of birth and death. Now that I have truly walked this path and seen beyond the veil, I realise that throughout our many lives, every chapter of our existence is like a play. Once the scene is finished, we simply move on to another act in the endless cycle of rebirth. It is truly a tragedy; if one cannot awaken to the truth of life, one is destined to repeat this cycle over and over again. Living life after life as if we are merely actors in a play—think about it—it is absolutely exhausting!

We have all experienced the feeling of 'watching the play' of life, but in this world, it seems there are very few opportunities to truly wake up from the performance. It was only after I arrived at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia that I finally understood the true principles of life. These are the truths that helped me awaken, and I feel a deep need to share them with all of you now.

A Message to My Loved Ones

I know that my family, my children, and my dear friends are still waiting for word from me. They want to know if I am doing well and if I have truly attained rebirth in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. Through this message, I want to tell them: 'Since arriving at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre, I have been doing better and better. My worldly heart has gradually become pure. This place is a pure land in itself, and it has guided me to the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss—the true land of liberation.' I am so joyful to have had this experience, and I will continue to practise diligently. I have made a vow that I will also help all beings.

The Urgency of Practice

Listen to me, everyone: the past is gone and cannot be reclaimed. You must seize the present moment. Practise the Pure Land path, transform yourselves, and break through the limitations of your own lives. You must come to the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia to learn how to practise and how to find your true selves. I will not speak to you with worldly sentimentality; I only hope that through this precious message, you will understand that living in this world is full of suffering. You truly must practise and find your way back to your original nature.

A Vow from the Western Pure Land

I spent so many days suffering in the hells, and I have witnessed the scenes of reincarnation with my own eyes. I truly know that the cycle of rebirth is far too painful! I hope that this message today can help you change your path. To everyone I have ever known, I wish for your well-being. I will be waiting for you in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss.

Ma Taiping bows in gratitude to Namo Amituofo and to Practitioner Su. Namo Amituofo.

With palms joined, Ma Taiping."