Overcoming Emotional Entanglements

During the Thrice Yearning Ceremony and the Noon Offering, we are reminded of the profound nature of our practice and the obstacles that keep us bound to the cycle of rebirth. Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju offers these essential teachings to help us navigate the complexities of the human heart.

The Barrier of Emotion

The barrier of emotion is difficult to overcome, and the chains of attachment are hard to break. Throughout history, countless heroes and great figures have fallen because they could not transcend these deep-seated emotional entanglements. You must clearly perceive the path that lies ahead. Do not let your future pass by in a state of carelessness or ignorance. When you finally look back upon your life, you will realise that a hundred years have vanished in the blink of an eye, leaving you with nothing but the weight of your past.

The Illusion of the World

Everything in this world is illusory; do not cling to it. Between the fleeting illusions of the world and the Universal Principle, the Truth, and the Right Way, which one truly carries weight? Which one deserves your devotion? You must understand this principle deeply. It is not enough to merely know it; you must put it into practice in every aspect of your daily life. Under no circumstances should you allow your heart to become restless or unfocused. It is a rare and precious opportunity to encounter the Buddha-land and engage in such profound practice; do not let this chance slip through your fingers.

The Path of Diligent Practice

Even the Causal Conditions that bring us together are part of this grand illusion. They are like flowing water, passing by in a single, fleeting moment. If you allow emotional entanglements to arise within your heart, your progress on the path of practice will inevitably slow down and eventually come to a halt. It is a great tragedy to waste the preciousness of a human life in this way. You must understand the Truth to navigate the vast sea of emotions. Be diligent and sincere in your practice, walking firmly upon the path to Buddhahood.

Realising the True Nature

Hold fast to the Buddha-name of Namo Amituofo without interruption. Let your focus be so singular that your eyes no longer perceive the distracting shadows of the world. There is only one true path: to realise your true nature. To save yourself and, in doing so, save all sentient beings—this is the only priority that matters. Your vow to reach the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss must not be mere empty words. It requires you to be grounded, taking every step with sincerity and determination.

Entering the State of No-Mind

Adjust your heart and transform your thoughts until you enter the state of no-mind. In this state of no-thought, every thought is empty, free from the stains of attachment. In this emptiness, there is not a single thing to grasp. There is no emotion, no you, and no I. Transform all your connections into Dharma-affinities, and enter the Dharma within the Dharma. Only then are you truly engaged in the path to Buddhahood. The path to the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss is right before your eyes. Move forward directly, without hesitation or delay.

Recorded by the Buddha's disciple, Venerable HaiZe.

Namo Amituofo