The Hidden Past of a Modern Visionary
An Interview with the Spirit of Ma Yun
Recorded on February 22, 2018
This is a record of an interview with the spirit of Ma Yun, who sought at the Hsiang Kuang Buddhist Centre in Australia. Through the daily practice of Chao Du, he has joined the ranks of saviors, embarking on a journey to find his true self. This account reflects upon his past life as the Great Master Faxian and his subsequent . It was recorded by the chief writer, Venerable Shi Faxi, on February 22, 2018.
Venerable Shi Faxi speaks:
"Ma Yun, in a past life, you served as the Great Master Faxian, dedicated to spreading the Buddha’s teachings in the world. Namo Amituofo."
A Stirring of the Soul
Ma Yun speaks:
"Great Master Faxian... I, Ma Yun, have never once imagined that I could possess such a side to myself—a status so dignified and so lofty. As you say this, I feel a profound resonance within my heart. Why is it that I suddenly feel like weeping? I have always been a very strong person. I never shed tears in front of others, and I have always preferred to accomplish things entirely on my own. But now that you mention it, I realise that I have always truly enjoyed sharing my experiences with others. I have always wanted to help people by pointing them toward a better path, using the lessons I have learned to guide the younger generation. I have given countless speeches in many different formats. It turns out that all of these actions were rooted in the Causal Conditions of my past. Today, I am truly astonished to learn of these things."
The Weight of Responsibility
"I have finally come to understand what it means to spread the . It turns out that I have a responsibility in this regard. Previously, I felt that such a concept was incredibly distant from me; it seemed completely disconnected from my social circle and my personal interests. I am also acutely aware that my current character and conduct are far removed from that past life. I feel a deep sense of shame when I consider the myriad changes that occur throughout the cycle of being reincarnated, and how I have become submerged in the and of this world.
If I am able to truly make the most of this opportunity, I should also contribute my strength to protecting the Buddha’s teachings. Now that I know of my past, my heart has become much more settled. It feels as though there is a shadow of a monastic within me now. This feeling is truly wonderful."
A Final Reflection
"I am grateful for this chance to find my true self again through this process of spiritual deliverance. Namo Amituofo."
More from Jack Ma — Saved Souls
Restoring the Heart of Humanity: A Vision for Pure Land Education
Lay Practitioner Ma Yun shares his profound reflections on the necessity of Pure Land education and his vision for a future centre dedicated to restoring the true heart of humanity.
The Awakening of a Visionary
Lay Practitioner Ma Yun reflects on his observations of a magnificent Dharma Assembly at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre, contemplating the nature of suffering, the boundless power of deliverance, and his own path toward spiritual awakening.
A Vision of Deliverance and the Path to Awakening
Lay Practitioner Ma Yun reflects on his observations of a magnificent Dharma assembly at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre, sharing his profound realisation regarding the nature of life, death, and the urgent need for spiritual deliverance.
The Burden of Greatness and the Path to Clarity
A reflective testimonial from Ma Yun regarding his spiritual journey, the realisation of the impermanence of worldly success, and his encounter with the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre.
More by Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre
The Final Curtain Call of Chu Ke-liang
A candid reflection from the late Taiwanese entertainer Chu Ke-liang on his life, his career, the karmic weight of his influence, and his ultimate deliverance to the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss.
The Soul's True Equality: A Conversation with Mahatma Gandhi
This is a record of an interview with Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, who sought deliverance at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia. He now resides in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. This account reflects upon his life and his journey to the Pure Land.
A Reflection from the Western Pure Land
This is a record of an interview with Zhao Puchu, who sought deliverance at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia. He now resides in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. This account reflects upon his life in the 20th century. Recorded by the chief writer, Shi Fa Hui, on April 18, 2026.
The Truth Behind My Rebirth: A Message from Liu Suqing
Liu Suqing, the elder sister of the renowned practitioner Liu Suyun, shares her harrowing journey through the spirit realms and her ultimate deliverance to the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss through the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre.
The Burden of a Historical Name
This is a record of an interview with Lin Biao, who sought Chao Du at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia. He now resides in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. This account reflects upon his life approximately 54 years ago. Recorded by the chief writer, Shi Fa, on May 18, 2026.
The Poet’s Journey to the Western Pure Land
A reflection on the life, tragedy, and ultimate spiritual liberation of the ancient statesman Qu Yuan, who found peace through the teachings of Practitioner Su.
About the Author
Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre
Contributed to Pure Land Buddhism knowledge library