Recorded and transcribed by ’s disciple, Venerable Fa Hui.
During the third session of the held on 16 February 2025, Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju provided these essential teachings on the nature of the path and the meaning of steadfast commitment.
The Heavy Veil of Accumulated Lifetimes
For accumulated lifetimes, we have been deeply entangled in the heavy veils of our own attachments. Because of this, we have failed to recognise our original, true nature. We have become lost within the illusory world, trapped by the sensations of our physical bodies, our fleeting thoughts, and -centred desires that define our ego-driven existence. This state of delusion keeps us wandering in the cycle of rebirth, unable to see the reality that lies beneath the surface of our daily experiences.
The Luminous Clarity of the True Nature
In contrast, our original nature is inherently pure and untainted. It is defined by the quality of , free from selfishness, and radiating with a brilliant, boundless light. When one realises this true nature, one can see the reality of all things with absolute clarity. One is no longer deceived or swayed by the illusory world. This is the state of an awakened being, where the mind remains undisturbed by the changing conditions of the external environment.
The Boundless of the
The awakened mind is naturally endowed with the spirit of oneness and profound compassion. When we truly understand that all beings are one with ourselves, we begin to perceive the suffering of others as our own. A Bodhisattva or an awakened being will:
Witness the suffering of all beings with a heart of deep empathy.
Take upon themselves the burdens and pains of others, enduring them without a single complaint or regret.
Dedicate their entire existence to the singular goal of helping all beings leave suffering behind and find happiness.
Only those who have attained this level of realisation can act in such a way. To achieve this, one must make the vow—the vow to attain full enlightenment for the sake of saving all beings. This is the only way to truly realise one's true nature and successfully walk the Buddha's path. This is the Universal Principle, the Truth, and the Right Way.
The Eternal Vow of Never Retreating
What does it mean to be steadfast and never retreat? It refers to the heart of the Buddha, the Bodhisattvas, and all awakened beings. Their commitment to saving sentient beings never changes, regardless of the circumstances. Because the suffering of beings is endless, the heart that seeks to save them knows no bounds and no end. This is the true meaning of never retreating; it is a vow that transcends time and space, remaining constant throughout eternity.
The Return of the Ancient Buddhas
Often, these Buddhas and Bodhisattvas are Ancient Buddhas who have returned to the world to save sentient beings. These are beings who attained Buddhahood in the distant past, yet, upon seeing that sentient beings with karmic affinity are still suffering, they choose to manifest according to those conditions. Their manifestations are not limited by time or place. They may appear:
In this world or in other realms throughout the Realm.
Across the vast expanse of the universe, including the planets of the Milky Way.
Even here on Earth, in whatever form or role is necessary to help the other person be saved.
As a physical presence or as a spirit without a body, continuing their work until the beings they seek to save are liberated.
The Buddhas and Bodhisattvas will continue to return to the world to save all sentient beings with whom they have a connection. Their work of salvation is eternal, and their commitment to this path is truly never-ending. Namo Amituofo.
