Teachings from Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju: recorded and transcribed by ’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe.
A pure heart—a heart of absolute clarity and sincerity—is of the utmost importance, whether one is living within the world or seeking the path of transcendence. What does it mean to possess such a heart? A pure heart is a heart devoid of evil. It is a heart that has transcended the narrow confines of selfishness and the persistent, illusory sense of an independent self.
When your heart is truly pure, you no longer act out of personal gain or ego. Instead, you possess only the sincere intention to think of others and to wish for their well-being. Regardless of how others treat you—whether with kindness or hostility—you remain steadfast, responding with a heart that is simple, unpolluted, and free from malice. This is a precious state of being; it is, in fact, the original, simple, and inherently good nature that every being possesses at their core.
The Descent into Defilement
If one can maintain this pure heart, one remains free from contamination. However, as we navigate the complexities of life, our thoughts and intentions often become clouded. We begin to develop attachments, harbouring negative thoughts and focusing on what is lacking rather than what is good. Our hearts become defiled through the influence of Greed, Anger, Ignorance, Arrogance, and Doubt, and the temptations of wealth, lust, fame, food, and sleep.
These attachments act as stains upon the mirror of our original nature. Perhaps this shift occurs as we transition through the various stages of life—the pressures of family, the demands of education, the challenges of a career, or the responsibilities of marriage and parenthood. In every interaction with people, events, and objects, our thoughts and intentions are constantly being tested.
The Manifestation of
When we allow these defilements to take root, we inadvertently trigger the manifestation of karma. We stir up the dormant habits and personality traits we have carried from countless lifetimes. Consequently, through our Body, Speech, and Mind, we create various negative causes. These causes inevitably lead to negative consequences, which manifest in our lives as physical and mental suffering, including the pains of aging and illness, spiritual interference, and a state of mental confusion, where we feel drowsy, scattered, or unable to focus.
The Path of Purification and
If you have entered the path of practice, you must recognise these states as forms of pollution. They are obstacles that hide your true nature. You must apply yourself with diligent practice to achieve purification. Only through this process can you return to the original, pure, and unblemished self that you truly are. Only then will you have the opportunity to realise your true nature and achieve Awakening.
This journey of self-salvation requires a multi-faceted approach: you must actively work to dissolve karma, remove defilements, serve beings to help them dissolve their own karma, while simultaneously cultivating your own and wisdom, and accumulating merit and virtue.
Returning to the Source
Throughout this process, please remember the vital importance of chanting Buddha's name. By relying on your own efforts, you will receive the Buddha's blessings. By helping yourself, you allow the Buddha to help you. This is the way to find your way back to your pure heart and, ultimately, to reach the state of Awakening.
I encourage you to exert your utmost effort. Align your heart and your vows with those of Namo Amituofo, and walk this path with unwavering faith. Namo Amituofo.
