The Heart of the Buddha: Compassion and Inclusivity

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

The Foundation of Harmonious Living

In our daily interactions with others, compassion and inclusivity are the essential virtues that maintain harmony. When we approach others with an open heart, we create a space where peace can flourish. Conversely, when we lack compassion, when we find it difficult to appreciate the virtues of others, or when our mind-capacity is narrow, it becomes nearly impossible to sustain harmonious relationships. These qualities—compassion and inclusivity—are not merely social skills; they are inherent aspects of our true nature. They naturally manifest once we have undergone the process of body, mind, and spirit purification through our practice.

The Path of the Diligent Practitioner

To cultivate these virtues, one must strive to embody several key principles in daily life. By doing so, we move closer to our true self:

• Selflessness: We learn to put aside our own desires and consider the needs of others first.
• Adherence to Precepts: We commit to living ethically, ensuring that our actions do not cause harm to ourselves or to others.
• Endurance and Diligence: We recognise the suffering of all beings and, in our vow to help them leave suffering behind, we practise patience and diligent practice to achieve our own awakening.
• Understanding the Human Condition: We develop the wisdom to understand that many beings are trapped by their own karma, unable to change their personality traits or escape the cycle of illness and ageing.

The Dangers of a Narrow Mind

If one lacks compassion and harbours a narrow mind, it is very easy for jealousy to take root. This state of mind is a clear indication that one is still heavily influenced by karmic forces. If a person with such tendencies does not become aware of their condition or finds it difficult to change, they become highly susceptible to negative influences. These include:

• The manifestation of karma: Past actions and intentions begin to surface, creating obstacles in one's life.
• Spiritual attachment: The mind becomes a vessel for external spirits who seek to influence our thoughts and actions.
• Interference from demon crowds: One becomes vulnerable to the disruption of those who wish to hinder our spiritual progress.

These factors become significant barriers to our practice, making it increasingly difficult to realise our true nature.

The Wisdom of the Awakened

Those who have realised their true nature possess an infinite capacity for compassion and inclusivity. Their hearts are no longer confined by the ego; instead, they have merged with the vast Dharma realm of emptiness. Because they have attained the state of no-self, they can clearly see and understand the suffering of all beings, and they possess the ability to help them leave suffering behind and find happiness. They are acutely aware of every thought and intention, the stirring of emotions, and the feelings of others. Consequently, they can teach according to the potential of each individual, helping them break through delusion and attain enlightenment. Such beings are truly a treasure to the human world. If you are fortunate enough to encounter such a person, you should cherish the opportunity and learn from them.

The Power of the Buddha-Name

More importantly, never forget to chant Namo Amituofo. By holding the name of Namo Amituofo in your heart, you receive the support and merit of Namo Amituofo’s Forty-eight Great Vows. When the hearts and actions of the one who chants are filled with compassion and inclusivity, they become perfectly in sync with the Buddha-heart and the Buddha-vow. This creates a powerful synergy between your own efforts and the power of the Buddha, allowing your practice to advance steadily until you reach the ultimate success of awakening. Namo Amituofo.