From the perspective of the Universal Principle, the Truth, and the Right Way, when looks upon all beings, He sees that every one of them is already a Buddha. However, in the realm of phenomena, because of the different actions and we have created throughout countless lifetimes, we appear in various realms and take on different forms. In our essential nature, every being possesses the true self and the Buddha-nature. This is the foundation upon which the equality of the Buddha’s teachings is built. The first of the Ten Great Vows of Samantabhadra is to respect for all Buddhas. This vow is the starting point for our practice, as it reminds us to see the inherent Buddha-nature in every living being we encounter.
The Compassionate Guidance of the
Beings differ in their capacity and understanding because of the varying degrees of their confusion or . Consequently, the Buddha has provided many different methods and teachings. All of these diverse paths exist for one singular purpose: to help all beings find their way back to their true self and their original Buddha-nature. Because beings are lost in confusion, their clarity is obstructed, and they cannot see the truth of their existence. Therefore, the Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, and the ancestral masters, who have already seen the truth, share these insights with us. They help us to recognise our current situation and guide us toward the path of returning to our true self.
Awakening from the Long Slumber of Delusion
To truly benefit from these teachings, you must first recognise that you are lost. You must have a sincere wish to resolve your confusion, to break through delusion and attain . This journey requires you to overcome the various difficulties that arise in your daily life, to break through the obstacles that hinder your spiritual progress, and to move forward step by step with patience and determination. You must unravel the layers of confusion that have clouded your mind for so long. Only by doing this can you come to know the truth and see your true self. This is the only way to truly save beings from the cycle of birth, aging, sickness, death, and to help them leave suffering behind and escape the ocean of reincarnation forever.
The Sacred Path of Purification
The fundamental prerequisite for this path is that you must understand the Truth and be willing to leave suffering behind. You must have a genuine desire to find your true self. Once you possess this vow, you will be able to accept the series of purification processes and tests that follow. These challenges are not meant to harm you, but to refine your spirit and remove the karmic debris that has accumulated over aeons. You are now entering this very process of transformation. You must take full responsibility for your own practice and face these challenges as early as possible. By adding diligent practice to your daily life, you will be able to undergo purification, and then more purification. Through this, you can look forward to the day when you finally rediscover your true self.
Cherishing the Fragrant Light of the Centre
This is the unique advantage of being part of the Hsiang Kuang Buddhist Centre. You are in an environment specifically designed to support your growth and provide the guidance you need. You must cherish this opportunity and make the most of the time you have here. Do not let these precious moments pass by in vain. By staying focused on the path and keeping your vow, you will surely reach the destination of your practice. Namo Amituofo.
