Opening the Heart: Teachings from Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju

During the first session of the Thrice Yearning Ceremony, Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju offers profound guidance on the necessity of opening one's heart to the Buddha's light, healing karmic wounds, and transforming our perceptions to walk the path of Awakening. This teaching was transcribed by the chief writer, Venerable HaiZe, on May 15, 2021.

Illuminating the Shadows Within

To open your heart is to create space for the light of the Buddha to enter. Within the depths of our minds, there are often dark, hidden corners—places where past regrets and shadows of doubt reside. When you open your heart, you allow the radiant Buddha-light to shine directly into these areas. This light does not judge; it simply illuminates, sweeping away the gloom and the heavy, stagnant energy that has clouded your spirit. By inviting this light in, you begin the essential work of purification, clearing the path for your true nature to shine through.

Healing Through the Buddha-Name

The practice of chanting Namo Amituofo is a source of profound, steadying power. When you open your heart, you allow this sacred Buddha-name to flow into your very core. This energy acts as a balm for the soul. Many of us carry the weight of past grievances and the accumulated pain of our karmic creditors—those beings who have been bound to us through lifetimes of misunderstanding. As you chant with a sincere and open heart, the grievances and injustices that have persisted for ages begin to dissolve. The soothing power of the Buddha-name provides the relief and resolution that these spirits have long sought, allowing both you and them to find peace.

Transforming into Wisdom

Opening your heart also means learning to embrace the diversity of the world around you. Instead of reacting with resistance or judgment, please learn the art of transforming your thoughts. When you encounter a challenging situation, practise shifting your perspective toward the positive. Think well of others and look for the good in every interaction. By doing so, you transform every person you meet into a true spiritual friend. When you change your internal state, the entire world around you will begin to change as well, reflecting the harmony you have cultivated within.

Nourishing the Dharma Body

Finally, opening your heart allows you to receive the nectar-like Dharma words from Namo Amituofo, our Teacher, and Practitioner Su. These teachings are the medicine that washes away the stains of our worldly attachments. As you absorb this wisdom, every cell in your body experiences a deep purification and a moment of true rest. You begin to breathe in the qualities of compassion, wisdom, and tolerance. With this renewed clarity, make a pure vow to engage in diligent practice. By chanting Namo Amituofo with unwavering focus, you move closer to Awakening. Through this process, your Dharma Body gains the strength to perform Chao Du for all those connected by karmic affinity, ensuring that you and all beings may be reborn in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, guided by the Universal Principle, the Truth, and the Right Way.