The Hidden World Within Our Veins

This is a record of an interview with Venerable Chang Gao, who sought deliverance at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia. He now resides in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. This account reflects upon his insights into the spiritual nature of the human body and the hidden connections that bind us to our past. Recorded by the chief writer, Shi Fajing, on January 30, 2023.

Venerable Chang Gao speaks:

"Namo Amituofo. I am Chang Gao. It is a privilege to share these observations regarding the nature of the human form, a vessel that is far more complex and spiritually interconnected than most people realise. When we look at the human body, we see the internal organs, the blood, the bones, and the skin. Each of these components is vital; even a minor ailment in a small, seemingly insignificant area can have a profound impact on one's overall well-being. We often treat the body as a purely physical entity, but we must understand that it is also a spiritual landscape, deeply influenced by the Law of Cause and Effect."

The Vast Network of Micro-Vessels

"Among the many organs and systems that comprise the human body, today I wish to speak specifically about the space occupied by the capillaries. One could argue that the capillary system is the largest organ in the human body. It is a vast, intricate network that permeates every single part of our being. There is no organ, no tissue, and no corner of the body where these micro-vessels do not exist. Because they play such a critical role in sustaining life, any pathology or disturbance within this network inevitably sends shockwaves through the entire body.

Recently, I was granted a vision of this capillary space. It was a staggering sight. The entire human body was filled with a dense, web-like structure of these vessels. I focused my attention on just one of these tiny threads, which, in the grand scheme of the entire body, was incredibly minuscule—hardly worth mentioning. Yet, to my astonishment, within that single, microscopic vessel, there was a large group of spirits waiting to exact their revenge. They were not alone; there were many of them, hiding and waiting in the shadows of that tiny space. When I looked further at the entire network of capillaries throughout the body, I realised that every single one of these fine, delicate vessels was occupied by sentient beings. These are spirits with whom I have had karmic affinities throughout countless lifetimes; they have followed me through the cycle of rebirth, never once leaving my side."

The Silent Observers of Our Intentions

"From this, one can clearly see that the karmic creditors we have accumulated over many lives are densely packed throughout our entire body. From the crown of the head to the soles of the feet, there is no place that is not inhabited by these beings. It is not just the capillaries; all of our organs are similarly occupied. What they are waiting for is the moment we give rise to a thought—the 'every thought and intention' that we produce. As soon as a thought is generated in the brain, it is instantly received by these karmic creditors scattered throughout the body. They are incredibly fast. They categorise these thoughts, selecting the ones that suit their purposes, and then they begin their coordinated attack on the body.

Human beings produce thoughts every second of every day. Without the process of purification, without the wisdom to restrain our wandering thoughts, and without the guidance of the Buddha’s teachings, we remain ignorant of how to cultivate goodness and cease all evil. It is this lack of awareness that awakens the countless beings residing within us. This is why the teachings of the Buddha are so essential for the Body-Mind-Spirit of every human being. We must rely on the Dharma to transform our own hearts and minds."

The Accumulation of Karmic Evidence

"I saw clearly that when an evil thought is generated, the spirits within the capillaries react immediately. They do not necessarily cause an illness the very moment the thought arises; rather, they begin a process of slow accumulation and fermentation. It is much like how humans collect data and evidence for a case. They gather their 'evidence'—our negative thoughts and actions—until they have enough to justify their actions. Once they have gathered sufficient evidence, they launch their attack. By the time a doctor diagnoses a serious illness, it is rarely a sudden occurrence; it is the result of this long-term accumulation of karmic debt.

Every thought must be accompanied by awareness; every thought must be rooted in goodness. This human body should be used to help sentient beings and to resolve the conflict with the many beings residing within us. We should no longer live our lives driven by our own stubborn personalities or selfish desires. Only by changing our hearts and transforming our thoughts can we truly help ourselves, benefit others, and serve all sentient beings.

Namo Amituofo."