The Essence of the Present Moment: Words of Namo Amituofo

During the Thrice Yearning Ceremony, Namo Amituofo offered these profound teachings regarding the nature of the present moment. We must contemplate what it truly means to live in the present.

The Fleeting Nature of Time

What is the present moment? The very instant you attempt to speak of it, that moment has already passed. The present is this very instance, existing neither in the past nor in the future. Even in the brief blink of an eye, the present moment slips away, and once it is gone, it can never be recalled. It is a transient shadow, yet it is the only space where our lives truly unfold.

The Weight of Every Action

While the moment itself is fleeting, the laws of karma and cause and effect never pass by in vain. Every thought, word, and action leaves an imprint upon our consciousness. Because every moment carries the weight of these laws, we must be mindful of how we spend our time. We cannot afford to let these precious opportunities pass by without purpose.

Living in the Light of the Buddha

How then should you live in the present? To ensure that every moment is filled with meaning, you should adopt the following daily practices:

• Keep your heart focused on chanting Namo Amituofo in every present moment.
• Ensure that the Buddha resides within your heart in every present moment.
• Practise repenting and making prostrations to the Buddha in every present moment.
• Maintain diligent practice without ceasing in every present moment.

You must listen to the sutras and allow the teachings to enter your heart. When you encounter difficult situations, learn to transform your perspective rather than being swayed by external circumstances.

The Path to True Awakening

As you continue to refine your practice, you will find yourself becoming purer and clearer. You must strive to reach a state of no-self, no-thought, and no-attachment. If you can truly achieve this state of mind, then every present moment becomes a moment of Awakening. This is the ultimate goal of our practice, leading us toward the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. These teachings were recorded by the Buddha's disciple, Venerable HaiZe.

Namo Amituofo