The Essence of Zen in Spiritual Practice
An Interview with Venerable Changren
Recorded on May 4, 2019
This interview features Venerable Changren, a dedicated practitioner who sought deliverance at the Hsiang Kuang Buddhist Centre, where they currently reside and continue their spiritual journey. This conversation, which explores the profound nature of Zen and the cultivation of the heart, was recorded on May 4, 2019, and transcribed by the chief writer, Shi Faxi.
Venerable Changren speaks:
"Namo Amituofo. If we speak of Zen, we must first understand that within Zen, there is no 'Zen' to be found. This is because true Zen is beyond the concept of Zen itself. Zen requires a state of meditative concentration that encompasses both motion and stillness. It is a state that can be practised while in motion, and it is equally attainable in stillness. When one reaches this level, every action in motion becomes an expression of Zen, and the true, pure nature of reality is revealed.
The Paradox of Zen in Motion
If you were to ask, 'How can one awaken wisdom amidst the constant movement of the world?' the answer lies in the stillness of the heart. Even when the external environment is in a state of flux, if your heart remains still, you will naturally possess the clarity to understand the truth. You will not be swayed by the shifting conditions of the outside world. One must learn to seek the truth within the state of non-attachment. By doing so, you will naturally perceive the true phenomena of existence without being disturbed by the busyness or chaos of the external environment. Do not let these external distractions cloud your vision or deceive your eyes. Only by remaining unmoved can you truly walk the path of and make the correct choices in life.
The Trap of Ignorance and Delusion
Look at the world around us; there are so many people who are lost in the depths of confusion. Because they are ignorant, they are unable to see the truth. These individuals easily forget their ultimate goals and are quick to believe in the fleeting circumstances that appear before them at any given moment. They often feel lost and aimless because their hearts are easily influenced by external conditions. When the heart is stirred, everything one perceives—whether it is what one sees with one's own eyes or what one hears with one's own ears—becomes unreal. These are tainted by obstacles, leading one to misinterpret events and fall into error.
This ignorance and the chaotic movement of the mind are born from the delusions within each person's own heart. If the heart can remain unmoved, these interferences and troubles will not arise. Consequently, your practice will naturally encounter fewer obstacles, and you will be able to achieve a higher state of spiritual attainment.
Returning to the Pure Heart
True practice should be focused on returning to a state of absolute purity. It should not be tainted by delusions, attachments, or the agitation of the heart. These things cause immense harm to one's practice because they disturb the very heart that is meant to be cultivated. When your heart is shaken, the state of Zen vanishes entirely, and you lose the ability to be the master of your own mind. Therefore, the most important aspect of practice is the purity of the heart and the strength of one's meditative concentration.
Everyone must strive to recover this innate ability. You must be able to master your own state of mind and not allow your heart to sway back and forth like a pendulum. You must let your heart settle, find your true self, and through this, enhance your spiritual state.
The Sanctuary of Hsiang Kuang
The Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre is the greatest pure land in the universe. Everyone should take this opportunity to practise diligently. By doing so, you will be able to find your true self in the future, which will not only help you but also benefit all beings. Strive to become a person who can truly be the master of their own destiny. I am deeply grateful to the grandmother, and I offer my humble respects. Namo Amituofo."
Recorded by the chief writer, Shi Faxi.
More from Master Chang Ren
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About the Author
Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre
Contributed to Pure Land Buddhism knowledge library