recorded and transcribed by ’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe
On January 11, 2026, Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju offered these essential teachings on the practice of receiving beings.
The Gateway to Spiritual Refuge
The act of receiving beings is the fundamental mission of the Buddha’s gate. It is the process of opening the doors of wisdom so that lost souls may enter and find a true sanctuary for their body, mind, and spirit. When we receive beings, we provide them with a place of rest and a path toward their ultimate destination.
To effectively receive beings, one must inspire them to believe in and follow the teachings of the Buddha, the guidance of their teachers, and the example set by Practitioner Su. This is achieved through both the spoken word and the silent teaching of one's own conduct. When a practitioner embodies the in their daily actions, those they receive are able to truly benefit from the teachings.
The Qualities of a Compassionate Guide
Those who are tasked with receiving beings must possess certain virtues that allow others to learn and grow. A true guide should be a beacon of light, possessing the following qualities:
Abundant Merit and : One’s own practice must be deep enough to benefit others, creating a field of merit that supports those who are struggling.
Auspicious Characteristics: A dignified appearance and a calm, respectful demeanour help to put others at ease.
Joyful Conduct: When a practitioner radiates genuine and serenity, it naturally inspires others to enter the Buddha’s gate and continue their own diligent practice.
Practical Expressions of the Dharma
The way we interact with the world is a form of teaching. By maintaining a state of , we can turn every encounter into an opportunity to share the light of Namo Amituofo. Consider these practical methods for receiving beings:
The Power of the Buddha-name: Always keep the name of Namo Amituofo in your heart. When you greet others with a warm smile and a sincere recitation of the Buddha-name, you plant a seed of joy in their hearts. You may also teach them to use the Buddha-name as a standard greeting or a response in their daily lives.
A Pure Environment: The temple must be kept clean, orderly, and serene. When chanting then becomes a continuous, flowing stream that never stops, the environment itself becomes a powerful teaching. This is the first impression visitors have of the temple, and it must be maintained with great care.
Personal Conduct: Ensure that your attire is neat and clean, free from any unpleasant odours. When you present yourself with dignity, you naturally inspire respect in others, which makes it much easier to guide them toward the Dharma.
Sharing the Dharma: Offer a simple introduction to Namo Amituofo and the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. By encouraging others to chant the Buddha-name, they receive the Buddha's blessings and begin their own journey of practice.
The Offering of Sustenance: Providing tea, refreshments, or vegetarian meals is a wonderful way to connect with beings. Through these acts of generosity, you establish a positive Dharma affinity that can lead them toward the path of .
The Mission at Hsiang Kuang Buddhist Centre
The Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Goombungee, Queensland, Australia, is a place where Namo Amituofo is residing here. We must make the best use of all available methods to receive beings, ensuring they receive the full benefits of the Pure Land Dharma.
By following this path, we help beings find peace and happiness in this present life. More importantly, we guide them toward the ultimate goal: to not grow old, not get sick, and the spirit does not die, eventually attaining rebirth in the Western Pure Land. Let us continue this work with diligence and , never ceasing in our efforts to save all suffering beings.
