Reaching the Other Shore: The Heart of the Buddha

The Path to the Other Shore

This discourse was recorded and transcribed by Namo Amituofo’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe, during the noon offering on the fifteenth of September, 2024. Namo Amituofo offers these compassionate words to guide all beings:

The path of reincarnation is a road of endless wandering, while the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss is the true destination of the soul. As a practitioner, you must ask yourself: towards which shore are you travelling? Is your heart truly set on reaching the Western Pure Land, and can you fulfil this aspiration in your current life?

The Three Provisions for the Journey

To reach the other shore, you must rely upon the Three Provisions: Faith, Vows, and Practice. These three are inseparable; if you lack even one, your journey will be incomplete. By preparing these provisions fully, you ensure your arrival at the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, where you will experience the infinite life and infinite light of Amitabha. Therefore, you must be diligent in your practice and strive to walk the Buddha's path with unwavering commitment.

The Compassion of Hsiang Kuang

When you observe the world, you see the suffering of beings trapped in the vast sea of karma, struggling in the mud of worldly attachments. It is difficult to escape this mire on your own. However, there is hope. The desire to leave suffering behind and find happiness is the first step toward liberation. By returning to the world to save others, you can guide them back to the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss alongside you.

Amitabha truly abides at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre at this very moment. We offer counseling to all beings to enter this sanctuary, for here, the path to rebirth in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss is clear and attainable. Namo Amituofo extends a helping hand to guide you, offering the opportunity to return to the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss within this very lifetime.

The Unity of Practice

You should chant Buddha's name at all times. Never let the name of the Buddha leave your heart, for it is the ultimate refuge for your spirit. Namo Amituofo knows your heart, and through the power of the Buddha’s light, your practice will become more effective. When you chant, let your heart follow your mouth. As your heart becomes pure, your speech will naturally become pure as well.

• Every step is a step with the Buddha: Let every movement be an expression of your devotion.
• Every sound is a connection to the Buddha: Do not let a single moment pass without the name of Namo Amituofo.
• The Buddha is within: The Buddha resides in your heart, your speech, and your hearing.
• Transformation of karma: Even your karmic creditors can join you in chanting, eventually transforming their resentment into the Buddha's light.

Awakening and Liberation

When you awaken the Buddha within your own heart, your true nature as an awakened being is revealed. You will realise the Dharma Body and manifest in countless manifestations to save suffering beings. Through the simple yet profound act of chanting, even those who were once your karmic creditors can be saved, transforming their karmic burdens into the Buddha's path. By chanting Namo Amituofo, you will find true liberation, reunite with your Father, Namo Amituofo, and successfully attain rebirth in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss.

Namo Amituofo