Fulfilling the Character of All Beings

Venerable Master Sheng Yen, a renowned Buddhist teacher, shares his insights on the current state of the Dharma from the spiritual realms. This message was recorded on July 21, 2017, through the assistance of the disciple Shi Faxi, who serves as the chief writer for these communications. The Master reflects on the necessity of genuine practice and the importance of supporting authentic spiritual centres like the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre to truly heal the suffering of sentient beings.

Venerable Master Sheng Yen speaks:

"To support what is called the true Buddha’s teachings, that is the work of a true practitioner—one who is authentic, sincere, and honest. Their only focus is to give of the Dharma..."

The Declining State of the World

"The state of the Buddha’s teachings in this world is much like an economic depression; it seems to become more disappointing with each passing year. I am not certain how all of you view this situation, but you must understand that it is truly not good. If you have developed a sense of vigilance, you will be able to grasp my meaning clearly. However, if you feel that everything is still fine as it is, then even if I were to exhaust every possible argument, you would still believe that the current state of affairs is acceptable. This is a contradiction inherent in human nature. Sometimes, when I encounter such situations, I simply smile and offer no further counseling, only blessings. I know that perhaps the karmic affinity is just that—nothing more. Whether I speak much or little, it is of no benefit, because the role that karmic affinity plays has already weakened or vanished entirely. Without the support of karmic affinity, whatever you say will simply not be heard. I have always chosen to offer a smiling blessing; perhaps that can preserve a positive connection. When the conditions are ripe one day, it may allow them to remember my existence, and if there is a need, I will still be able to help them. In the past, this was always my way of delivering sentient beings according to their conditions."

The Complexity of Karmic Affinity

"The opportunities for sentient beings are difficult to define at a single point of balance. Everyone’s capacity for practice is not the same, which is why there are always different Dharma gates and different karmic affinities helping all beings to obtain the greatest benefit. This is the magnificent nature of the Buddha’s teachings. The compassion of the Buddha is truly immeasurable. Everyone always speaks of the Dharma-Ending Age, saying that the capacity of sentient beings is poor, that they are difficult to tame and discipline, or that they lack sufficient blessings and few people believe in the Buddha. Some people, as a result, have turned to other methods to deliver sentient beings. But in truth, this very state of the world is the time when the Buddha’s teachings should be most flourishing, because all sentient beings need the Buddha’s teachings, yet they do not know what the Buddha’s teachings truly are."

The Truth Within the Heart

"When I was in the world, I always supported this idea. Now, living in the spiritual realms, I understand even more clearly where the problem lies. The Buddha’s teachings are truly the Truth and the reliance that everyone deeply desires and craves within their hearts. However, everyone still does not know the Buddha’s teachings well enough, because the true Buddha’s teachings are currently sinking along with the state of the world. The reason, of course, is that those who are involved in the Buddha’s teachings have not cultivated themselves well, have not led others properly, and have not fulfilled their responsibilities. Now, assigning blame is no longer the most effective way to solve the problem. We should stand up and support what is called the true Buddha’s teachings. That is the work of a true practitioner—one who is authentic, sincere, and honest. Their only focus is to give of the Dharma, and they have the energy and the confidence to save people, to heal the impoverished hearts and the suffering karmic bodies of everyone."

The Work at Hsiang Kuang

"I see that here, at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre, you are doing exactly these things. Have you seen it? If the stance of the Buddha’s teachings can bring true benefit to all of humanity—which is peace of heart—I believe the Buddha’s teachings will flourish because of it. When I was in the world, I promoted similar methods. Indeed, the followers of Dharma Drum Mountain were very numerous, and the scale of our activities was grand. They knew that their Master understood their needs, so they were willing to believe in, revere, learn from, and support the Buddha’s teachings. However, even though they began to step into the path of practice, it seemed that nothing had really changed. They only became more diligent in chanting the Buddha’s name, or they only increased the number of sessions they attended to learn the Dharma, or participated in activities held by Dharma Drum Mountain, such as the Chan-seven retreats. Everyone felt that the Buddha’s teachings were good—too good! But when the test of circumstances arrived, were you still 'good'? It is true that you were learning the Buddha’s teachings, but it was too superficial. Not delving deeply is also a very significant problem. Have you all realised this issue? Too many people are still caught up in the conflicts of 'self' and 'others.' The dust of the world, emotional desires, greed, anger, delusion, arrogance, and pride still remain. Only by severing all of these can one truly practise the Buddha’s teachings well."

A Final Wish for Practice

"I am Sheng Yen. I hope that everyone will learn the Buddha’s teachings well and achieve spiritual success. I hope that the Buddha’s teachings in this world can be deeply planted in the voids of everyone’s hearts and fulfil the character of all beings. Life does not have to be suffering, as long as you make the correct choice, truly let go, walk the path with sincerity, and practise diligently. You will certainly obtain immense benefits. I hope everyone is willing to do so. Namo Amituofo."