The Essence of Sincerity: Teachings from Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju
From the Third Session of the Thrice Yearning Ceremony, Australia, 2019
A discourse on the purity of heart and the path to Awakening
The Unveiling of True Sincerity
What is sincerity? In the ancient teachings, it is said that when not a single thought arises, this is called sincerity. Pure goodness without the turbulence of wandering thoughts is also sincerity. Therefore, we may define true sincerity as that which is not false, where not a single thought arises, and where pure goodness exists without the interference of the ego.
To possess a sincere heart is to be capable of offering oneself to any being in any realm, from the highest levels of down to the deepest hells. This sincerity is entirely free from selfish desires or thoughts of personal gain. It is a heart that is genuinely earnest, even to the point of being selfless, thoughtless, and impartial. When you face others with such supreme sincerity, you do so purely for their benefit, without seeking any reward in return. This is the most wonderful method for capturing the hearts of people, spirits, , and even the beings in the plague and demon realms.
The Purity of Our Intentions
Under the Universal Principle, the Truth, and the Right Way, to act in accordance with the righteous path and to strive with all your might for the sake of all beings—this is the true meaning of sincerity. However, we must be vigilant. If you are acting for the sake of others, yet there remains even a single thread of attachment or hidden agenda, that action is tainted. It is neither true nor pure, and therefore, it is not true sincerity.
Consider a bowl of pure water. If you add even a single drop of ink to it, the water is no longer pure. Similarly, if your practice or your vows are mixed with the desire for self-interest, even if you are ostensibly working for the benefit of others, the sincerity is compromised. When self-interest is the primary motivation and the benefit of others is secondary, the action lacks the power of truth. It is not transparent, and it is difficult to derive any genuine or lasting benefit from such a practice.
The Fruits of Devotion
What, then, is the true and genuine benefit of sincerity? It is a state that is pure, clean, good, and luminous. It is a state that feels light and possesses great power. Most importantly, it is the path to reducing your karmic obstacles and reaching the time of an awakened being. You have likely heard the saying: One part sincerity and respect brings one part benefit; ten parts sincerity and respect brings ten parts benefit. This is a phrase familiar to all, but can you truly understand it? Have you realised its actual benefits in your life?
If you are someone who truly seeks the with a sincere and respectful heart, you will be able to receive and understand this meaning. The benefits you gain are yours alone; they are personal experiences that cannot be understood or attained by others on your behalf.
Walking the Path at Hsiang Kuang
You must understand that the Hsiang Kuang Buddhist Centre is a treasure mountain of the Buddha’s gate. While the teacher may lead you through the door, the actual practice must be done by you. You must actively seek the Buddha’s path so that you may attain an awakened being and, in turn, descend to help all beings. Do not waste this precious human body. You have been granted the rare opportunity to connect with Namo Amituofo and Practitioner Su. Cherish this connection, practise with all your heart, and let your sincerity be the light that guides you home to the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss.
These teachings were recorded by the Buddha's disciple, Venerable HaiZe.
Namo Amituofo
More by Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre
The Final Curtain Call of Chu Ke-liang
A candid reflection from the late Taiwanese entertainer Chu Ke-liang on his life, his career, the karmic weight of his influence, and his ultimate deliverance to the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss.
The Soul's True Equality: A Conversation with Mahatma Gandhi
This is a record of an interview with Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, who sought deliverance at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia. He now resides in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. This account reflects upon his life and his journey to the Pure Land.
A Reflection from the Western Pure Land
This is a record of an interview with Zhao Puchu, who sought deliverance at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia. He now resides in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. This account reflects upon his life in the 20th century. Recorded by the chief writer, Shi Fa Hui, on April 18, 2026.
The Truth Behind My Rebirth: A Message from Liu Suqing
Liu Suqing, the elder sister of the renowned practitioner Liu Suyun, shares her harrowing journey through the spirit realms and her ultimate deliverance to the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss through the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre.
The Burden of a Historical Name
This is a record of an interview with Lin Biao, who sought Chao Du at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia. He now resides in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. This account reflects upon his life approximately 54 years ago. Recorded by the chief writer, Shi Fa, on May 18, 2026.
The Poet’s Journey to the Western Pure Land
A reflection on the life, tragedy, and ultimate spiritual liberation of the ancient statesman Qu Yuan, who found peace through the teachings of Practitioner Su.
About the Author
Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre
Contributed to Pure Land Buddhism knowledge library