The Fleeting Nature of Life

Recorded and transcribed by Namo Amituofo’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe.

On the twenty-first day of September, 2025, during the first session, Namo Amituofo provided the following discourse regarding the nature of our existence.

The Transience of the Morning Dew

Life is as fleeting as the morning dew. Consider how the dew forms in the cool of the night, only to be revealed by the rising sun. Each droplet is crystal clear and brilliant, holding a spirit within its tiny form. Yet, in the blink of an eye, the dew vanishes, and its shadow is nowhere to be found. Our lives are much like these droplets. When the light of impermanence shines upon us, our physical form dissolves into emptiness. The water turns into vapour and rises into the vast space, leaving no trace of its former self. We search for it, but we cannot find the spirit that once resided within the dew.

The Lost Spirit in the Cycle of Rebirth

This is precisely what happens when a life comes to an end. Where does the spirit go after it departs from the physical body? It wanders through the six realms of existence, and no one can truly know its destination. It is a lonely, wandering spirit, drifting through the vastness of the six realms of existence. Within that droplet of life, there is a true self—a precious nature that has the potential to become a Buddha. Yet, because of our ignorance, we fall into the six realms of existence and lose our way, leaving no trail to follow.

The Salvation of the Buddha’s Name

However, there is hope. If one can hear the sacred name of the Buddha—Namo Amituofo—a profound transformation begins. Once the name enters the ear, it becomes a seed of the Dharma that will last forever. Even if one does not attain liberation immediately, the time will eventually come when that spirit is saved. When this spirit receives the Buddha’s blessing and the Buddha’s light shines directly upon it, all impurities are extinguished, and seeds of Goodness are nurtured. The spirit enters the radiance of the Buddha and finds true salvation.

Cherishing the Precious Human Life

Finally, the spirit is able to leave this confined space and be reborn in the human realm or heavenly realm. It is a transition from the path of suffering to the path of Goodness. To possess a human body is a rare and magnificent opportunity. To encounter the teachings of Namo Amituofo is an event that is difficult to encounter in millions of years. Therefore, you must practise Cherishing Time and never let your moments pass in vain. Every effort you make will be multiplied, for you are supported by the Buddha’s blessing. The Pure Land Dharma Gate is the path to your ultimate achievement, and your practice at Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre is truly magnificent.

Namo Amituofo