Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju offers this guidance on the concept of what one excels at and how one applies it. In this context, the term 'expertise' refers to the specific skills, talents, or knowledge that an individual has cultivated. The term 'application' refers to the purpose for which these talents are utilised. When we speak of those who dedicate themselves to the work of saving beings, we must recognise that they are constantly responding to the inquiries of beings from all directions. Each being arrives with their own unique set of karmic burdens and personal struggles.
Every question posed by a suffering being is, in essence, a manifestation of their own pain. These questions arise because of . When the underlying karma is resolved, the questions themselves naturally dissolve. Therefore, how does one effectively address these issues? The key is to understand the heart of the being. By directly addressing their heart, their questions are resolved, their mind becomes broad and open, and the obstacles that once hindered them are removed.
The Compassionate Use of
How, then, does one go about resolving the heart of another? One must utilise the six sense organs (eyes, ears, nose, tongue, body, mind) to apply one's expertise in the service of saving beings. When you are faced with a problem, you must employ and wisdom to use your specific talents to heal the heart of the other. Worldly knowledge, while useful in its own sphere, is limited by several factors:
It has a specific scope of application.
It is only suitable for certain types of people.
It is constrained by the limitations of time.
However, the Buddha’s teachings are universal. The beings saved by the include all people of the world. By using methods that they can understand and accept, we can introduce them to the teachings of the . Those who engage in the work of salvation must be adept at using their talents, tailoring their approach to the specific needs of the beings they are helping. In truth, there is no separate object to be saved, for all beings and ourselves are one entity. It is only because beings are lost in confusion that those who have awakened can use their talents to help them find their way back to clarity.
The Pure Intent of the Practitioner
This application of talent must never be for the sake of . It is not for personal gain, fame, profit, or the desire for validation. Instead, it must be rooted in a pure heart dedicated entirely to the welfare of others. When you convey the education of the Buddha’s teachings, your original talents and learning find their true and highest purpose. Therefore, for the fourfold assembly at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Goombungee, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia, you must follow the path of , the Teacher, and Practitioner Su in their mission to save beings.
If you are called upon to use your talents, you must do so with the sole intention of saving others. When you act, you must do so within the framework of an Upright Heart and Right Mind, following the (Discipline), Concentration and Wisdom. Do not violate the precepts; instead, make excellent use of concentration and wisdom. When you are engaged in the work of saving beings, you should apply the Six Perfections:
Generosity (Giving): Giving of your time, resources, and Dharma.
Discipline (Precepts): Maintaining the purity of your conduct.
Patience (Endurance): Enduring the difficulties of the path with a calm heart.
Diligent practice: Moving forward without hesitation.
Meditation (Concentration): Keeping the mind steady and focused.
Wisdom (Prajna): Seeing the true nature of all things clearly.
Practising these Six Perfections is the method for accumulating merit and virtue. It is the concrete expression of the —Faith, Vows, and Practice—which are essential for rebirth in the Western Pure Land. Only by building these provisions can you truly resolve the conflicts between yourself and other beings.
Protection Through the Buddha-Name
When you apply your talents to your practice, you must ensure that the Buddha-name is always with you, 24/7. By keeping the name of Namo Amituofo in your heart, you receive the Buddha's . This constant recitation helps to reduce the fluctuations of your mind. It prevents the arising of thoughts that might attract or lead to spiritual attachment, thereby avoiding interference and obstacles in your practice and your work of saving beings.
At the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre, Namo Amituofo, the Teacher, and Practitioner Su protect the fourfold assembly. By using your talents in the work of self-cultivation and saving others, you ensure that you are not led astray by the beings you are helping. You will find that your practice continues to advance, and this is the mark of a wise person. Namo Amituofo.
