Before one becomes an awakened being, the (eyes, ears, nose, tongue, body, mind) are heavily obscured. One is constantly influenced by the of the physical body, by attached spirits, and even by the interference of the demon crowds. Because of these layers of obstruction, one is unable to see the full, unvarnished truth of reality. Instead, one relies on the limited functions of the physical senses to interact with the world of sights, sounds, smells, tastes, touch, and thoughts. One makes judgments and discriminations based on , which is the standard way ordinary people function while living in this world.
Because every individual carries different karmic debts and has walked different paths through the cycle of rebirth, life situations are unique. Therefore, one must rely on continuous learning to fill the gaps in one's understanding. In this world of constant change and impermanence, the external environment is always shifting, and new knowledge is constantly emerging. To survive, people feel compelled to look outward and learn incessantly.
The Heavy Burden of Spiritual Attachment
As one moves through life, the mind is filled with constant thoughts, intentions, and emotional fluctuations. In this state of busyness and blindness, one unknowingly accumulates many attached spirits throughout , including the head and face. One continues this way until one grows old and falls ill. When the physical body can no longer bear the weight of these burdens, and the heart feels exhausted and powerless, one is forced to accept the reality of the body's decline and aging. Eventually, the four elements separate, and life reaches its end, completing the cycle of birth, aging, sickness, and death.
After death, where does the soul go? Even if family and loved ones in this world were deeply attached to one, they have no way of knowing the destination. All that remains are memories. These memories keep thoughts entangled, forming the spiritual relationships of —the parents, teachers, and beings from past lives who remain tied to one through the cycle of rebirth. This is the stark reality of most people's lives.
The Path of the Lay Practitioner
For those who study the Buddha's teachings while still working and living in the world, yet who aspire to lead a pure and untainted life, the path is one of balance. One must learn to navigate the world while simultaneously living a life of simplicity and purification. Many of you are lay practitioners who exist in a state of semi-practice. You carry the intention and attitude of seeking purity and simplicity, yet you have not fully let go of the world.
You may appear to have more awareness and autonomy than the average person. You possess the and the capacity to seek a simpler, purer life. While you can indeed elevate the quality of your spirit while living in this world, you have not yet reached the state of an awakened being. You still experience afflictions and the lingering influence of the seven emotions and . To reach the state of an awakened being, one must completely let go, without a single shred of attachment.
The True Meaning of Merit and Virtue
Under these conditions, much of what you cultivate is considered Blessings rather than true Merit. Only when you give without expectation, and without attachment to the appearance of giving, does your action become true Merit. By practising the Five and Ten Good Deeds in this state, you may be reborn in the human or celestial realms.
If you can chant , generate Bodhicitta, and focus your mind entirely on the Buddha, you may vow to be reborn in the West. However, you must hope that your wish is fulfilled. In this world, a lay practitioner may appear to have the conduct that suggests they will be reborn in the of Ultimate Bliss. Yet, in reality, even if auspicious signs appear, they may instead be reborn in the celestial realm. This happens because of a lingering attachment to a specific emotion, a specific person, or a specific desire in this world.
The Final Test of Letting Go
As long as you hold onto even the slightest thread of attachment, it can become a barrier at the moment of death. When you are chanting Namo Amituofo at the end of your life, your karmic creditors may manifest as familiar faces or voices to distract you. They will create obstacles to pull you away from your focus. If your mind shifts even for a single moment, you will fail to concentrate on the Buddha-name. Consequently, you will not be able to follow the Buddha to the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. Everyone must be extremely cautious and vigilant regarding this!
