Guiding All Beings to Awakening

Teachings from Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju, recorded by the chief writer, Venerable HaiZe, on October 2, 2021.

The Dual Paths of Compassionate Guidance

To guide all beings through the Dharma is a sacred duty. Throughout history, the Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, and patriarchs and venerable masters have relied upon two primary methods to transmit the Buddha’s teachings:

• The Teaching of Words: This involves delivering lectures and explaining the sutras to clarify the truth for those who are lost.
• The Teaching of the Body: This is the silent, powerful demonstration of the truth through one's own conduct, character, and daily practice.

By combining these two approaches, one creates a complete environment for transformation. It is not enough to merely speak; one must embody the teachings so that others may see the reality of the path in action.

Breaking Through Delusion

Many beings remain trapped in suffering because they do not understand the laws of karma and cause and effect, nor do they perceive the true nature of the laws of the world. When we encounter beings with whom we share a Dharma affinity, we must observe their capacity and teach them accordingly. Our ultimate goal is to help them break through delusion and attain enlightenment, eventually realising their true nature.

Even when beings are deeply confused or unwilling to listen, we must remain diligent and compassionate. We continue to teach them, hoping that one day they will awaken. Through the power of immersing ourselves in these teachings and the merit gained from chanting Namo Amituofo, we help them cease to create karma and provide them with the opportunity to turn their lives around.

The Infinite Reach of Compassion

The term "all beings" refers to everyone who can receive the benefits of the Dharma. Depending on the merit and the depth of practice of the one who teaches, the reach of this guidance can be vast or intimate. It extends to:

• Individual cells within our own bodies.
• Karmic creditors who seek balance for past grievances.
• Attached spirits who reside within us, seeking liberation.
• Earthly creatures and all beings within the six realms of existence.
• The four holy states and the vastness of the Dharma Realm.

The Buddha-heart is infinite and boundless. When we dedicate ourselves to guiding all beings, the number of those who receive the benefits of the Dharma is truly endless. May we all continue this work with a sincere and unwavering heart.

Namo Amituofo