The Benchmark of Spiritual Practice

The Guiding Beacon of the Pure Land

A benchmark, in its simplest form, is a marker placed upon the earth or an object to serve as a guide. It is a point of reference, a target toward which one directs one's efforts. In the context of our practice within the Pure Land school, what is the true benchmark that we must set for ourselves?

The benchmark for a Pure Land practitioner is clear and profound:

• To chant the name of Namo Amituofo with a sincere heart.
• To make the firm vow to enter the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss.
• To attain Buddhahood, just as Namo Amituofo did when He made His great vows.
• To establish a Buddha-land of one's own true self, thereby gaining the capacity to save all boundless suffering sentient beings.

The Immutable Essence of the True Self

We must understand that worldly benchmarks are often transient. They are subject to the shifting tides of time and space, changing as our circumstances evolve. However, the true benchmark of our spiritual journey is different. It is the quest to realise one's true self.

Regardless of how many aeons have passed or how many different spaces we have traversed, the return to our original nature remains the only benchmark that never changes. This is because our true self is eternal and immutable. It does not fluctuate with the passage of time or the limitations of physical space. When you anchor your life to this eternal truth, you are no longer tossed about by the changing conditions of the world.

Illuminated Paths from the Enlightened Ones

To the students of Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre, know that you are blessed. Under the compassionate guidance of Namo Amituofo, the teachings of your teacher, and the support of Practitioner Su, each of you has been given the precious opportunity to realise your true nature.

The Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, Namo Amituofo, your teacher, and Practitioner Su serve as the living benchmarks for the fourfold assembly. They show us the way to reclaim our true self and fulfil the vow to save all boundless suffering sentient beings. Their presence is a constant reminder of the path we have chosen to walk.

Refining the Heart to Transcend the Self

To the fourfold assembly, I ask you to reflect deeply upon your own hearts. Do you feel trapped by confusion or internal conflict? If you can pass the tests that life presents to you, it is a sign that your practice is advancing. When you successfully change your personality traits—those habits that keep you bound to the cycle of rebirth—the transformation becomes visible to all.

However, if you find yourself constantly troubled by the same obstacles, it means you have not yet passed these tests. In such moments, your practice is either standing still or, perhaps, even regressing. You must continue to work on changing your personality. Only when you transform these deep-seated habits will you find that you can pass the tests and truly make progress on the path to Buddhahood.

The Manifestation of Faith, Vows, and Practice

The benchmark you seek is not a distant, unreachable star. It is a goal that manifests through the strength of your Faith, Vows, and Practice. It is revealed through your active and persistent efforts, and it is achieved through your unwavering determination, supported by your own efforts and the boundless blessings of the Buddha.

Stay focused, remain fiercely diligent, and keep your heart set upon the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. Namo Amituofo.