The Burden of Constant Thought
An Interview with Venerable Changren
Recorded by the chief writer, Shi Fajing, on November 20, 2022
This interview with Venerable Changren was recorded by the chief writer, Shi Fajing, on November 20, 2022. In this discussion, Venerable Changren explores the profound impact of continuous thinking on the internal space of and the vital necessity of purification to liberate the mind from the interference of sentient beings.
Venerable Changren speaks:
"Namo Amituofo. The state of the internal space within the body is entirely different depending on whether one has undergone purification or not. In our temple, every member of the fourfold assembly is engaged in practice, yet the degree of purification varies from person to person. Although we all reside within the same bodhimanda and follow the same daily routine, the amount of activity within The Head—the continuous thinking—differs significantly from one individual to another. Those who think excessively have heads that are clearly in a state of chaos, while those who think less are naturally more pure.
The Architecture of the Mind
When we look closely at the space within The Head after it has been purified, we can clearly see that most of these spaces are still and motionless. The sentient beings residing within have lower activity levels, which means their interference with The Head is minimal. Through the process of purification, and then more purification, these sentient beings have the opportunity to be invited out. As they depart from The Head, the burden on the practitioner is reduced.
The Chaos of Continuous Thinking
In the secular world, people are accustomed to thinking. They view it as a normal state of existence. Because they are in a state of continuous thinking, one can see that the space within their brains is incredibly complex. These densely packed spaces are entirely created by thought. Within these crowded, congested areas, you will find all kinds of sentient beings. Because thoughts are so diverse—good thoughts, bad thoughts, virtuous ones, and evil ones—they are all mixed together. Naturally, these different types of thoughts attract different corresponding sentient beings, who then enter the brain.
The Danger of Unchecked Thought
People do not take their thoughts seriously because they do not understand the immense harm that this continuous thinking inflicts upon the body. These densely packed spaces are constantly causing interference with one's thoughts, emotions, and overall state. When the body is overwhelmed by their influence, it becomes difficult to be the master of one's own mind. Consequently, one's manifest, and the body falls further under their control.
The Path to Liberation
Now that we understand the importance of purification, we must actively learn to purify ourselves. Even if it is not easy to stop the flow of thoughts, we must persist in our efforts to help reduce our thinking, again and again. The best method is to let go of self-interest and focus entirely on the benefit of all beings. When you do this, naturally, such a multitude of thoughts will not arise.
Namo Amituofo."
More from Master Chang Ren
Letting Go of Past Pain
Venerable Changren shares his journey from a life of deep-seated resentment and demonic existence to his current path of deliverance, offering profound insights on how to release the burdens of the past.
Purifying the Thoughts of the Head
Venerable Chang Ren discusses the habitual nature of human thought, the spiritual consequences of a cluttered mind, and practical methods for achieving mental purity through the practice of Namo Amituofo.
The Labyrinth Within: Understanding the Space of Thoughts
Venerable Chang Ren, a practitioner at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre, explores the complex, layered spiritual spaces created by our thoughts, explaining how these mental landscapes are often influenced by karmic forces and how we can regain mastery over our own minds.
The Occupied Body: A Spiritual Reality
Venerable Chang Ren reveals the hidden truth behind the aging process and physical illness, explaining how uncorrected personality flaws create loopholes that allow spirits and karmic creditors to occupy the human body.
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About the Author
Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre
Contributed to Pure Land Buddhism knowledge library