The Essence of Dignified Demeanour in Practice

The Foundation of Dignified Demeanour

Dignified demeanour, or the observance of proper conduct, serves as the essential framework for all practitioners. It is a set of guidelines that the entire community must uphold together. This encompasses every aspect of our life within the Buddha’s gate, including the rituals performed in the Buddha hall, the way we offer greetings, the reverence we show toward the scriptures, and the sincerity with which we prostrate before the Buddha.

It is important to realise that the cultivation of such dignity is not achieved overnight. It is not something that can be forced or merely mimicked. Rather, it is an internal quality that radiates from within. When one’s virtue and inner cultivation reach a certain depth, this dignity manifests naturally. It is the outward expression of a heart that has been refined by the Dharma.

The Importance of Conduct in the Community

Dignified demeanour refers to the way a practitioner carries themselves in every situation. There is a saying that there are three thousand forms of dignified conduct. This is significant because such conduct directly assists in elevating the quality of our Body-Mind-Spirit. In a monastic environment, where we live and practise together, this is even more critical.

Any inappropriate speech or behaviour is a form of impurity. We must strive to remove these impurities to enter into a state of purity. This is especially vital for the monastic community, who serve as teachers to both humans and celestial beings. Since you are guides for the world, you must be mindful of your own conduct in every gesture and movement. You must hold yourselves in high regard.

Dignified conduct is the expected standard for the fourfold assembly. If the Buddha’s gate does not value this, the community will appear scattered, undisciplined, and lacking in respect. If our speech is vulgar and our appearance is unkempt, how can we expect others to respect us? And if we are not respected, how can the Buddha’s teachings be widely propagated? Only when we possess true dignity can our practice progress, and only then is there a genuine possibility of Awakening. Once you have reached the state of an awakened being, you can move freely and naturally without ever losing your dignity or creating obstacles for others.

The Four Pillars of Conduct

For every practitioner, there are specific guidelines to follow in the four basic postures of life. These are often described as: walking like the wind, standing like a pine, sitting like a bell, and sleeping like a bow.

• Walking like the wind: When you walk, your steps should be steady and light. Keep your gaze directed forward rather than looking left or right. Do not speak while walking. When you encounter external scenes, observe them without becoming attached to them; once you have passed, let the image go. Do not let your eyes wander. Avoid large, erratic movements. Most importantly, maintain your practice by chanting Namo Amituofo with every step. If delusions arise, stop them immediately.
• Standing like a pine: When you stand, do so with proper form. Your body should be upright and firm, like a pine tree reaching toward the sky. Do not slouch, sway, or lean against walls. Keep your heart focused on chanting Namo Amituofo, ensuring that you are not moved by external circumstances or distracted by messy thoughts.
• Sitting like a bell: When you sit, do so with the stability and composure of a great bell. Do not cross your legs in a casual or disrespectful manner. Use a pure heart to chant Namo Amituofo, which will help to suppress delusions and messy thoughts, allowing your heart to return to a state of profound stillness. When sitting in meditation, close your eyes and observe your heart, ensuring that no confusion or ignorance takes root.
• Sleeping like a bow: Practise moderation in sleep. During the day, focus on cultivating Goodness. When you rest, ensure your heart remains undistracted. It is recommended to sleep on your right side. Even while resting, you should continue to chant Namo Amituofo, observing your heart and diligently pursuing the path of the Dharma.

Living the Buddha’s Name 24/7

In your daily life, avoid frivolous talk. Do not speak in loud, boisterous tones, and never let your speech become light or superficial. The essence of chanting Namo Amituofo 24/7 is to keep the Buddha in your heart at all times. Whether you are walking, standing, sitting, or sleeping, the Buddha should be present in your actions, your thoughts, and your vows. By maintaining this constant connection, you ensure that your practice remains unbroken, leading you steadily toward the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss.

Recorded and transcribed by Namo Amituofo’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe.

Namo Amituofo