Stopping Delusions: The Path to Awakening
Words of Namo Amituofo
November 3, 2024
Recorded and transcribed by Namo Amituofo’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe
November 3, 2024, First Session
Namo Amituofo’s discourse:
The Moment of
When Shakyamuni Buddha gazed upon the morning star, he realised his true nature. In his teachings, he revealed a fundamental truth: all beings possess the same Wisdom and virtuous characteristics as the Tathagata. However, because of our deep-seated delusions and attachments, we remain unable to realise it. From this, we understand that delusions and attachments are the reasons why beings have been reincarnated for countless eons and are unable to see their true nature.
The Nature of Delusion
What exactly are these delusions that bind us? They are the wandering thoughts and endless ideas that fill our minds. To be 'delusional' is to be disconnected from the truth; it is to live in a state that is not real. We spend our days caught in these delusions, creating much from confusion, and remain unable to see our true nature. If you wish to find your way back to your true self through practice, you must stop these delusions.
The Power of Chanting
How can one stop such persistent thoughts? Namo Amituofo knows that, on our own, we lack the strength to overcome these deep-rooted habits of delusion and attachment. Therefore, he counsels us to practise chanting the Buddha's name—Namo Amituofo. By combining your own sincere effort with the infinite power of the Buddha's , you can effectively halt the flow of wandering thoughts. This allows you to use pure thoughts to stop wandering thoughts, using purity to control delusion.
The Two Forces of Practice
Because of the Buddha's blessings, using 'no-thought' to stop 'thought', and using the void to control existence, this is the focus point of practice. This practice relies on two essential forces working in harmony:
- Your own effort: The sincere, dedicated act of chanting Namo Amituofo.
- The Buddha's blessings: The compassionate, supportive power of Namo Amituofo that descends to aid your practice.
Breaking the Habit of Thinking
People have become accustomed to thinking; we think throughout the day, and even at night when is resting, our minds continue to churn with endless ideas. Therefore, Namo Amituofo counsels all beings to save themselves. Since thinking has become a habit and prevents us from seeing our true nature, please chant Namo Amituofo. Let every thought be a thought of Namo Amituofo to stop wandering thoughts. This is the Buddha's blessings in self-salvation. Namo Amituofo.
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About the Author
Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre
Contributed to Pure Land Buddhism knowledge library