Teachings on the Path of Awakening: The Eighth Letter of President Zhao Puchu
The Eighth Letter of President Zhao Puchu of the Buddhist Association of China
Recorded on July 7, 2017
The Foundation of True Practice
The Universal Principle, the Truth, and the Right Way of the vast universe and the void lie in the act of truly letting go, in genuine , and in sincere practice. No matter how high your current status may be, or how many followers or subordinates you may command, without these fundamental truths, everything you possess is merely an illusion. It is a dangerous path, for it often leads one in the wrong direction without any awareness of the descent. Once this process begins, it can quickly spiral out of control, which is a truly terrifying prospect. It can transform one into a manifestation of greed, causing one to become a being of the six paths trapped within the six realms of rebirth. I have spoken clearly enough on this matter; can you truly understand the gravity of these words?
The Peril of Empty Status
I do not wish to name individuals or cause embarrassment, yet the reality is that far too many are caught in this very trap. In the world today, it is exceptionally difficult for people to be willing to let go of everything and engage in quiet retreats. Many who are associated with large organisations or who come into contact with the Buddha’s teachings still find it impossible to relinquish their mountains of gold and silver, their attachments to beauty, or their worldly families. When one approaches the Buddha’s teachings with such heavy burdens, the purpose behind their practice becomes clear only to themselves. What, then, remains of the faith in the Buddha’s teachings, the leadership of the monastic community, or the propagation of the in the world today?
The Fading Light of Dharma
If the joy of the Dharma cannot exist within the heart of every individual, can the Buddha’s teachings still be considered the true Dharma? It is common to see those who lead the ceremony or members of the monastic community lacking this inner joy, instead filled with the heavy weight of greed, anger, delusion, and arrogance. Even if they do not speak of it openly, it is subtly visible to those who look closely. The habits that these individuals bring with them, along with the karmic seeds of the six realms of rebirth, are indeed difficult to manage. They are gradually eroding the very roots of the Buddha’s teachings everywhere. This occurs because many do not understand the principles of the Truth. If they could truly grasp these principles, perhaps a portion of them would awaken, and through mutual influence, more and more people might eventually find clarity.
A Vision for the Future of Buddhism
What is the Truth? There have been many, many passages written to explain this to us. If you examine them with sincerity and if you are truly awake, you will see that the Truth of the Buddha’s teachings has already manifested. It is my sincere hope that the public will cherish this opportunity. I truly hope that the Buddha’s teachings in China, and indeed throughout the entire world, can see a new hope in the way the Dharma is propagated. May we all strive to return to the essence of the Buddha’s teachings, leaving behind the illusions of the world to find the true path of liberation. Namo Amituofo.
More from Lay Practitioners
The Truth Behind Auspicious Signs: An Interview with Lay Practitioner Zhong Canzeng
Many have asked why a practitioner who displayed auspicious signs during chanting still fell into the hells. Lay Practitioner Zhong Canzeng, father of Venerable Ding Hong, shares his personal testimony on the reality of karmic debt and the saving grace of Namo Amituofo.
A Message from the Western Pure Land: Lay Practitioner Huang Nianzu
Lay Practitioner Huang Nianzu speaks from the Western Pure Land, offering profound insights on the mission of Practitioner Su, the presence of Namo Amituofo at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre, and a heartfelt call for practitioners to seize this rare opportunity for Awakening.
Transforming the Mind: An Interview with Lay Practitioner Li Bingnan
In this profound interview, Lay Practitioner Li Bingnan explores the deep connection between our mental state, the laws of karma, and the path to true healing. By understanding the role of karmic creditors and the compassionate guidance of Namo Amituofo, we can learn to transform our minds and find liberation from suffering.
The Crucial Choice: To Change or Not to Change
In this profound dialogue, Lay Practitioner Li Bingnan explores the vital necessity of repentance and the courage required to change one's ways. He addresses the heartbreaking reality of those who refuse to listen to guidance, the cycle of karmic retribution, and the urgent call for practitioners to act with compassion to save suffering beings.
More by Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre
The Final Curtain Call of Chu Ke-liang
A candid reflection from the late Taiwanese entertainer Chu Ke-liang on his life, his career, the karmic weight of his influence, and his ultimate deliverance to the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss.
The Soul's True Equality: A Conversation with Mahatma Gandhi
This is a record of an interview with Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, who sought deliverance at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia. He now resides in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. This account reflects upon his life and his journey to the Pure Land.
A Reflection from the Western Pure Land
This is a record of an interview with Zhao Puchu, who sought deliverance at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia. He now resides in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. This account reflects upon his life in the 20th century. Recorded by the chief writer, Shi Fa Hui, on April 18, 2026.
The Truth Behind My Rebirth: A Message from Liu Suqing
Liu Suqing, the elder sister of the renowned practitioner Liu Suyun, shares her harrowing journey through the spirit realms and her ultimate deliverance to the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss through the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre.
The Burden of a Historical Name
This is a record of an interview with Lin Biao, who sought Chao Du at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia. He now resides in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. This account reflects upon his life approximately 54 years ago. Recorded by the chief writer, Shi Fa, on May 18, 2026.
The Poet’s Journey to the Western Pure Land
A reflection on the life, tragedy, and ultimate spiritual liberation of the ancient statesman Qu Yuan, who found peace through the teachings of Practitioner Su.
About the Author
Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre
Contributed to Pure Land Buddhism knowledge library