The Essence of Vows and Desires
Teachings from Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju
Teachings from Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju, recorded and transcribed by Namo Amituofo’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe.
The True Motivation Behind Our Vows
If you are a practitioner, you must ask yourself: what is the true nature of your vows and desires? Are you seeking to alleviate the suffering of all beings, or are you merely trying to soothe your own pain? It is a vital question that defines the trajectory of your spiritual life. When you focus your heart on the suffering of others, your own burdens naturally begin to diminish, until they fade away entirely, leaving your heart clear and unburdened.
Your heart acts as the compass for your life's journey. It leads you forward, guiding your every action. If your path is clear and your intentions are pure, you will move steadily toward your goal. However, you must remain vigilant and cautious, for even the most dedicated practitioner can stumble if they become careless. Always be mindful of your thoughts and actions, ensuring they remain aligned with the Universal Principle, the Truth, and the Right Way.
Navigating the Storms of Life
Life is often unpredictable, and you may encounter sudden storms or turbulent waves. When such challenges manifest, a wise person knows when to pause and wait for the winds to settle. Do not force your way forward when the conditions are not right; instead, take the time to steady your heart and protect your life. By doing so, you ensure that you will eventually be able to continue your journey with renewed strength and clarity.
In every moment of your practice, let the name of Namo Amituofo be your constant companion. Each time you chant, you are receiving the Buddha's blessing, which strengthens your resolve and purifies your path. We hope that all of you can embrace the practice of chanting Namo Amituofo, not only for your own liberation but to help save all beings from their suffering and to help them understand the truth of existence.
The Constant Presence of Namo Amituofo
We wish for all beings to know the of Namo Amituofo, who is always ready to save us from the dangerous crossroads of life. If you have the good fortune to enter the mountain of treasures, do not return empty-handed. This life is your precious opportunity to return to the of Ultimate Bliss; do not allow yourself to fall back into the cycle of being reincarnated. We pray that all beings may encounter Namo Amituofo, for in every thought of the Buddha, you can achieve the purification of your body, mind, and spirit.
When you achieve this purification, your body will be free from the suffering of illness, and you will be spared the pains of old age and death. Your spirit will attain true freedom, and your heart will find lasting peace and happiness. In this lifetime, the greatest fortune you can possess is to encounter Namo Amituofo. At the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre, Namo Amituofo is always by your side. You may ask questions at any time, and the Buddha will always provide the answers you need to remove defilements and attain purity.
Living for the Benefit of All Beings
As you continue your practice of chanting and purification, never forget to keep the name of Namo Amituofo close to your heart. If you follow the Buddha closely, all your vows can be fulfilled, and the obstacles that manifest before you will be resolved. Remember that this life is not for seeking personal comfort or pleasure; it is for the noble purpose of saving others. When you dedicate your life to helping all beings leave suffering behind, you are engaging in the true practice of saving the world.
If you can follow Namo Amituofo with unwavering faith, you will be able to save beings and guide them toward the right path in every moment. Live each moment for the sake of all beings, and you will ensure that your encounter with Namo Amituofo in this life has not been in vain.
Namo Amituofo
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About the Author
Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre
Contributed to Pure Land Buddhism knowledge library