Letting Go of Illusions

Recorded and transcribed by Namo Amituofo’s disciple, Venerable Fa Hui.

On the twenty-eighth of November, 2025, Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju provided these essential teachings during the Thrice Yearning Ceremony.

The Fleeting Nature of All Phenomena

Everything that arises through Causal Conditions is but an illusion. There is nothing in this world that is truly permanent or real. Because we mistake these illusions for reality, we become trapped in the cycle of reincarnated suffering. Every experience we cling to is filled with tears and pain. Although we have been through this cycle countless times, we have forgotten the sorrow of those past lives. We repeat the same mistakes over and over again. How long must we continue this cycle before we finally stop the suffering?

If you truly recognise the ultimate truth, you will see that the cycle of rebirth is merely an illusion. When you realise that something is an illusion, you must learn to let go of it. Do not mistake it for reality. Do not hold onto it with attachment, for doing so only draws you further away from the truth and deeper into the world of illusions.

Awakening to the Eternal Truth

What is real, and what is merely an illusion? Your true self and your Dharma Body are the only realities. It is not that you do not know this; it is simply that you have forgotten it, having been lost in the cycle of rebirth for countless lifetimes. If this life is to be your final journey, you must hold firmly to the Buddha-name. If you forget the Buddha-name, idle thoughts will arise, and you will once again be trapped in a cycle of false perceptions.

What is true, and what is false? An awakened being is true; the physical body is false. By choosing to chant one Buddha's name to the end, you can use this temporary body to find your true self. This is the only way to finally break free from the karma of the cycle of rebirth.

The Path of Diligent Practice

Do not allow yourself to be distracted by excessive thinking or idle thoughts. All of these are illusions that you must learn to let go of. Be careful and cautious with every thought that arises, for every thought takes shape and is stored in your consciousness. When will you attain a pure body? You will attain it only when you engage in diligent practice without any slacking.

Today, at Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre, the work of the Buddha is being carried out. We are striving to save all boundless suffering sentient beings. Whether you are a spirit with a body or a spirit without a body, now is the time for diligent practice. You must work hard to elevate the quality of your spirit.

If you can let go of all illusions and remain mindful of Namo Amituofo with every thought, you will receive the Buddha's blessing. You will eventually find your way back to your true self and enter the land of Amitabha. For those spirits without a body who are receiving Chao Du, this is your opportunity to leave suffering behind and see the light.

Namo Amituofo