Nurturing Compassion: Teachings from Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju

recorded and transcribed by Namo Amituofo’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe

Compassion is the natural, spontaneous movement of the heart when one witnesses the suffering of other beings. It is the profound desire to help them leave suffering behind and find true happiness. For any practitioner, this compassion is the essential driving force behind one's progress. It is the very essence of one's vow; where there is a vow, there is the power to manifest it.

The Radiant Power of the Buddha-Name

When you chant Namo Amituofo all the way, you are not merely reciting words. You are opening your heart to the great compassion of Namo Amituofo. This sacred power flows through the Buddha-name, entering your ears and permeating your entire body. If you can maintain the chanting of the holy name of Namo Amituofo 24/7, this inexhaustible stream of great compassion will continuously pour into your heart, your ears, and every cell of your being. This is the most unique and effective method for nurturing compassion, and it serves as a powerful remedy to wash away the dust and impurities of our past karma.

Compassion as Our Original Nature

Compassion is not something we need to acquire from the outside; it is inherent in our true self. Because it is already present within our original nature, Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, and those who have realised their true nature possess a power of compassion that is constant and inexhaustible. Their compassion is natural, sincere, and entirely free from falsehood.

Transforming the Beings Within

When you are fiercely diligent in your practice, you do more than just improve your own state of mind. You actually transform the beings within our bodies and your very cells, inviting them to join you in chanting Namo Amituofo. As they receive the purification of the Buddha-name, the deep-seated karmic conflicts and grievances they hold are gradually resolved. This is why diligent practice is an act of compassion—it is compassion for yourself, and it is equally compassion for all the beings who share your existence.

The Lifelong Path of the Practitioner

By reflecting on the suffering of old age, sickness, and death that we experience ourselves, we can begin to perceive that the suffering of other beings is often even more profound than our own. This realisation should inspire us to be fiercely diligent, to elevate the quality of one's spirit, and to prepare for the day when, after reaching Awakening, we can go forth to save countless suffering beings.

As you walk this path, you will encounter challenges such as feeling drowsy or becoming distracted by the illusions of space. When these obstacles arise, use them as opportunities to resolve the conflict with the beings who are causing these distractions. When these beings are willing to resolve their grievances, you are not only helping them leave suffering behind, but you are also resolving your own suffering. Nurturing compassion is the most important, lifelong task for every practitioner.

Namo Amituofo