Perfecting the Dream: Teachings from Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju

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

On May 26, 2024, during the midday offering of the Thrice Yearning Ceremony, Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju provided profound guidance on the nature of our existence.

The Nature of Our Illusory Existence

Before one has realised their true nature, one is essentially living within a dream. We pass our days in this state, unaware of when we might truly awaken. We drift through life, hoping to see our true nature and achieve the Buddha's path, which is the only way to wake up from this long, illusory slumber.

The Compassion of the Awakened

Those who have realised their true nature act differently. They move through the dreams of other beings, performing the Buddha's work to save them. They work tirelessly, hoping that all beings will soon awaken, achieve success in their practice, and finally emerge from this dream. They understand that the path to liberation is paved with the compassionate effort to guide others toward the light of the Truth.

The Cycle of Rebirth

Beings are trapped in a cycle of rebirth, endlessly reincarnated within this dream. They suffer through the inevitable realities of life, which include:

• The cycle of birth, aging, sickness, and death.
• The sorrow of parting from loved ones and the fleeting nature of reunions.
• The confusion of mistaking this temporary body for the true self.
• The heavy burden of karma accumulated over countless lifetimes.

Because we mistake this dream for reality, we fail to realise that only by seeing our true self-nature can we find the truth. Therefore, we must practise using this temporary body to find the eternal truth. We must strive to rediscover our true self-nature while still within this dream.

The Path of Diligent Practice

This is not merely about understanding theories or speaking of the truth. It requires steadfast, grounded action. You must advance step by step on the path to have any chance of leaving behind the false and seeing the true. This diligent practice is essential for several reasons:

• It allows you to stop being chased and harassed by your karmic creditors.
• It prevents your precious true nature from being obscured by the dust of worldly attachments.
• It ensures that your inner light remains bright and unclouded.

Cherishing the Opportunity

If you are fortunate enough to encounter a Buddha in this world, follow their practice with sincerity. You will achieve twice the result with half the effort. You will be able to perfect your dream and see the truth. Cherish this opportunity, and do not let your time slip away in vain. Namo Amituofo.