Seeking the Original Nature

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

The True Appearance of Your Self-Nature

What is the true appearance of your self-nature? It is a state where you do not dwell on the past or worry about the future. The present moment is what truly matters. In this state, you are pure, at ease, and free from all burdens. Compassion and Wisdom (Prajna) are infinite, and your mind-capacity is boundless. Joy is inherent to your true self, and you possess the ability to master the cycle of birth, aging, sickness, and death. Your nature is pure and possesses auspicious characteristics. When there is no discrimination, there is equality; in the state of no-self, all beings are one.

The Illusion of the Ego

Because of confusion, the illusion of an individual self arises. This creates the distinction between you, me, and them. This attachment leads to selfishness, arrogance, and self-centeredness, which in turn breed afflictions, worries, and anxiety. Your mind-capacity becomes narrow, and you fall into the trap of constant comparison. Birth, aging, sickness, and death are inevitable, and no one can take your place in this journey. You come alone, you go alone, and you face the cycle of birth, aging, sickness, and death alone. It is difficult to maintain control over these transitions when you are lost in the world of form.

The Cycle of Reincarnation

If your personality leads you to plant negative causes, you will inevitably face the bitter fruits of those actions. The Five Desires: Wealth, Sexual Pleasure, Fame, Food, and Sleep—and the Five Poisons—Greed, Anger, Ignorance, Arrogance, and Doubt—act as dust that clouds your true self. This confusion stains your body and mind, leaving your spirit restless and your soul scattered. This is the very face of being reincarnated.

The Path to Liberation

To find your original nature, you must engage in diligent practice: study the teachings, chant Namo Amituofo, and strive forward. You must rely on both your own efforts and the power of the Buddha. Make good use of the two powers of the Pure Land—this is the supreme method for an awakened being in this Dharma-ending age. The Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre and Practitioner Su are here to help you see your true nature. They assist in chanting Namo Amituofo for rebirth in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss and help resolve the conflicts with your karmic creditors through Chao Du. You must understand this clearly and hasten to draw near to the path that leads back to your original nature.

Namo Amituofo