Recorded and transcribed by ’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe.
May 2, 2026.
Teachings from Namo Amituofo:
The Sacred Threads of Affinity
When Buddhas and Bodhisattvas manifest in this world, they must base their appearance on the foundation of Dharma affinity. Only then will there be beings who are in sync with their presence. Most of these beings are those with whom the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas have forged deep Dharma affinities throughout their many lives. If the affinity is with a single individual, the Buddha or may manifest as a transformation body to save them alone. However, if the affinity is with a large group of beings, they may manifest in different roles and identities to suit the specific needs of those beings.
These manifestations may take various forms: a fleeting appearance that lasts only for a moment, a temporary presence to address a specific situation, or a full lifetime of manifestation, such as the eight phases of the path to Buddhahood demonstrated by Shakyamuni Buddha. Manifestation is almost always the result of a Dharma affinity planted in the past. When the time is right and the Dharma affinity has fully matured, the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas will naturally observe this and respond to the needs of the beings. One might wonder if there is ever a chance that a Dharma affinity remains unmanifested, leading to a missed opportunity to save beings. Please understand that Buddhas and Bodhisattvas are always eager to save beings; they would never allow such an opportunity to slip away.
The Turbulent Waters of the Human Vessel
However, because beings in the cycle of reincarnation have not yet reached the state of an awakened being, there are variables in the results that follow a manifestation. Every human being possesses a physical body, which is essentially a . Within this body, there exist many , attached spirits, and demon crowds. These beings residing within our bodies are much like us; they possess emotions, , and shifting moods. They are also beings governed by , trapped in the state of impermanence.
Therefore, when a Buddha or Bodhisattva manifests, the condition of the beings within our bodies at that exact moment significantly influences the outcome. This interaction determines whether the manifestation can truly help the being, whether the affinity will be continued, or whether the affinity will change, break, and ultimately come to a conclusion.
The Radiance of the True Self
If the true self is in charge of at the moment of a Buddha’s manifestation, then that is the most ideal situation. This is what we call the true self taking charge. When the true self is in control, it is generally able to be in sync with the manifestation of the Buddha or Bodhisattva. This allows the practitioner to accept the teachings and reminders provided by the Buddha, turn misfortune into good fortune and avoid impending disasters, or engage in timely acts of Generosity, thereby cultivating and even supreme merit.
The Echoes of Karmic Debt
If, however, the body is controlled by karmic creditors, the situation becomes more complex. Even if the Buddha or Bodhisattva knows that the one in control is a karmic creditor rather than the true self, the affinity is what it is. The response from the karmic creditor can vary greatly: they may accept the teachings and be saved, they may react with slander and hostility, or they may show no response at all. Everything depends on whether the karmic creditors are willing to accept the guidance of the Buddha and act according to those instructions.
Unless these karmic creditors or demon crowds also share a deep Dharma affinity with the Buddha, the beings within the body may miss the chance to be saved. If the beings within the body are consumed by a strong desire to seek revenge, they will be unable to accept the teachings or reminders of the Buddha. Consequently, they fail to avoid misfortune and continue to suffer, which makes the manifestation of the Buddha a truly regrettable missed opportunity. The above is a brief overview of the affinity of manifestation.
A Beacon for the Fourfold Assembly
Practitioner Su has also provided a living example of this. Over the course of five years, Practitioner Su has been obedient, engaged in diligent practice, and achieved the state of an awakened being. Their conduct and teachings serve as the very best model for the fourfold assembly of disciples to follow. The fourfold assembly of disciples must learn to listen and truly understand the teachings of Practitioner Su. You must act in accordance with the teachings of Namo Amituofo, the guidance of your Teacher, and the care provided by Practitioner Su. By engaging in diligent practice, you will surely achieve success in the near future.
