Recorded and transcribed by ’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe.
On August 16, 2025, Teacher Xia Lianju provided the following guidance regarding the application of one's talents in the practice of the .
The Essence of One’s Unique Talents
When we speak of one's talents, we refer to the specific skills, expertise, and aptitudes that an individual has cultivated. The question of how these talents are used is of paramount importance. In the context of our spiritual mission, these talents are not for personal gain, but are tools for the work of deliverance. When we dedicate ourselves to saving beings, we are constantly met with questions from all directions. Every being who approaches us carries their own unique burden of and their own specific set of problems.
It is essential to understand that every question asked by a suffering being is a manifestation of their inner pain. These questions are born from karma; therefore, when the karmic obstacles are removed, the questions themselves naturally dissolve. The core of our work is not merely to provide intellectual answers, but to resolve the suffering at its root.
Illuminating the Path of Deliverance
How, then, do we resolve these problems? The key is to understand the heart of the being. When you can directly perceive the state of their heart, their questions are answered, and their mind becomes broad and free from obstacles. To achieve this, you must utilise your (eyes, ears, nose, tongue, body, mind) to save beings with the talents you possess. By applying and wisdom, you can address their specific problems and bring peace to their hearts.
Worldly knowledge, while useful in its own sphere, has inherent limitations. It is bound by scope, applicable only to certain objects, and restricted by time. However, the Buddha’s teachings are universal. The beings we seek to save include all those within the world, and we must teach them the path using methods they can understand and accept. A true practitioner must be skilled in applying their talents to the specific needs of the beings they encounter.
The Boundless Unity of All Beings
In truth, there is no separate object to be saved, for all beings and ourselves are one entity. We are only separated by the confusion of the beings. As a practitioner, you use your talents to help them awaken from this confusion. This application of talent must never be for the sake of , for fame, for profit, or for the sake of seeking validation. It must be done with a pure heart, solely for the benefit of others. When you convey the education of the Buddha’s teachings, your original talents and learning find their true and highest purpose.
A Compassionate Call to the Fourfold Assembly
To the fourfold assembly (monks, nuns, laymen, laywomen) at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Goombungee, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia: you are following the path of Namo Amituofo, the Teacher, and Practitioner Su in the mission to save beings. It is vital that you use your talents wisely for this noble purpose.
Maintain an Upright Heart and Right Mind: In every action, rely on the , Concentration, and Wisdom. Do not violate the precepts, and make good use of your meditative concentration and wisdom.
Practise the Six Perfections: Incorporate Generosity, Discipline, Patience, Diligent Practice, Meditation, and Wisdom into your daily interactions.
Accumulate Merit: This is the concrete practice of the —Faith, Vows, and Practice—which provides the necessary resources to resolve conflicts with .
The Shield of the Buddha-Name
When you apply your talents to your practice, you must ensure that the Buddha-name is always with you. Recite Namo Amituofo 24/7. This constant recitation allows you to receive the Buddha's , which reduces the fluctuations of your mind. By keeping your thoughts steady, you avoid attracting karmic creditors or suffering from spiritual attachment, thereby preventing interference and obstacles in your practice and your work of saving others.
At the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre, Namo Amituofo, the Teacher, and Practitioner Su protect the fourfold assembly (monks, nuns, laymen, laywomen). By using your talents to save yourself and others, you ensure that you are not led astray by the beings you seek to help. To remain steadfast in your practice while helping others is the mark of a wise person. Namo Amituofo.
