The Heart of the Buddha: How is Your Practice?

The Infinite Power of the Buddha-Name

My children, how is your chanting of the Buddha-name progressing? Throughout the teachings provided by Namo Amituofo, Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju, and Practitioner Su, it has been made abundantly clear that the act of holding fast to the Buddha-name is the most vital aspect of your spiritual journey. Through our continuous work of spiritual deliverance, we have come to understand even more deeply the meritorious power of the Buddha-name. It possesses an inconceivable energy that has already saved countless creatures and brought stability to entire galactic systems.

Why, then, do you find it difficult to maintain your practice? Could it be that there is still a lingering doubt in your hearts regarding the immense power of the Buddha-name? You may wonder why, despite your efforts, you are still unable to suppress your afflictions or prevent the rise of wandering thoughts. You may feel that you are far from achieving a pure mind and pure thoughts. This struggle persists because you have not yet truly placed your full faith in the Buddha, nor have you placed full faith in your own potential to awaken.

The Trap of Half-Hearted Practice

The reason your practice feels stagnant is that you have not yet sincerely and correctly believed in the divine power of the Buddha and the Buddha-name. You have not yet truly resolved to change your ways. Instead of making the Buddha-name the centre of your life, you treat it as a secondary, peripheral role. You only turn to the Buddha-name when it is convenient, such as when you happen to remember to chant, when you have a spare moment in your busy schedule, or when you feel a specific need for help.

Because of this, you often forget that the Buddha is always present. You become so consumed by the busyness of your daily life that you neglect to chant entirely. When afflictions arise, when you find yourself comparing your life to others, or when you feel helpless and without support, you may find yourself huddled in the dark corners of your own mind, desperately needing someone to save you. You seek the Buddha's help, yet you forget that the Buddha-name is the very refuge you have been neglecting. Consequently, the Buddha-name cannot manifest its true power, and you remain trapped in your difficulties. This occurs because your hearts are bound by worldly attachments; without a heart of sincere reverence, the Buddha-name you chant remains empty.

The Path of Faith, Vows, and Practice

My children, I ask you again: how is your chanting of the Buddha-name? Look into your heart and ask yourself if your intention is truly sincere. Do you truly desire to be reborn in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss? To truly practise and have faith in the Buddha is to receive the Buddha's blessings. Most importantly, this practice is for your own benefit. The Forty-eight Great Vows of the Buddha are all contained within the Buddha-name, and they can be revealed through your own devotion.

I wish for all of you to embody the path of Faith, Vows, and Practice. Do not let these remain mere concepts in your mind. You must hold tightly to the Buddha-name within your daily practice. Only then will you be able to fully realise the benefits of the Dharma. Namo Amituofo.