The Illusory Nature of the Physical Body
Teachings from Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju
This teaching was delivered by Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju during the noon offering at the on March 8, 2024. It was recorded and transcribed by Namo Amituofo’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe.
The Illusory Nature of Existence
Everything in this world is illusory; it possesses both a beginning and an end. This physical body is also an illusory form within an illusion. All sensations and experiences associated with this body are likewise illusory forms within an illusion. They arise solely due to the and the causes and effects we have created, manifesting as the fruits of good or evil consequences.
The Precious Opportunity of Human Life
If we spend our entire life merely drifting through these karmic conditions—constantly settling debts, seeking revenge, or repaying kindness—it is truly a great pity. We have been granted this human body, yet we do not know when we will have another opportunity to possess such a form to engage in spiritual practice. We must recognise the rarity of this precious opportunity.
Seeking the True Self
The purpose of our practice is to rediscover our true self. We must put in the work and be diligent; only then will we have the opportunity to see our original nature. Everything we encounter during our practice is merely a scene within an illusion. Do not be careless or misled by these appearances, lest you forget to seek your true self. Even our emotions—, anger, sorrow, and happiness—are illusory; do not take them as real as you pass through this life.
The Path of Purification
Regarding the sutras, we must strive to understand the true meaning of the Buddha. Regarding our practice, we must never neglect the following essential daily tasks:
- Chanting Namo AmituofoPerforming prostrations
These are the excellent methods for purification and for attaining meditative concentration. Life passes by in a flash; you must seize every moment to practise at Hsiang Kuang: A Sacred Sanctuary. Namo Amituofo, Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju, and Practitioner Su are all here to guide you to cast aside the false and find the truth. Cherish this time; do not let it pass in vain.
Namo Amituofo
More from Teachings of Practitioner Xia Lian Ju
The Boundless Grace of the Buddha
Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju shares profound insights on the immeasurable grace of the Buddha, the manifestation of Bodhisattvas across the six realms, and the rare, magnificent opportunity for spiritual growth at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre.
The Radiance of the True Nature
Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju explains the profound nature of Buddha-light, how it purifies the soul, and how the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre serves as a beacon of hope for all beings.
Lay Down Your Baggage and Journey Home
A profound teaching on the soul's journey through the cycle of rebirth, the heavy burden of worldly attachments, and the compassionate call of Namo Amituofo to return to our true home in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss.
Humbly Seeking Guidance: Teachings from Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju
Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju offers profound guidance on the necessity of humility, repentance, and the unwavering practice of chanting Namo Amituofo to achieve liberation and rebirth in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss.
More by Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre
The Redemption of a Hollywood Icon
A candid reflection from the spirit of Elizabeth Taylor, who shares her journey from the blinding lights of Hollywood to the serene, transformative teachings of the Buddha in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss.
The King of Pop's Journey to the Western Pure Land
Michael Jackson shares his journey from the pressures of global fame to the peace of the Western Pure Land, revealing the truth behind his life and his ultimate deliverance.
A Voice from the Darkness: Helen Keller's Journey
Helen Keller, the renowned deaf-blind philanthropist, shares her journey from the darkness of the ghost realm to the light of the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, guided by the compassion of Namo Amituofo and Practitioner Su.
An Interview with Albert Einstein (Theoretical physicist)
Albert Einstein, once considered the most brilliant mind in human history, reflects on his life, the nature of 'science' versus the Truth of the Dharma, and his existence in the Western Pure Land.
A President's Repentance: Ronald Reagan's Journey to the Pure Land
Ronald Reagan, the 40th President of the United States, reflects on his life, his political career, and his profound journey from the depths of hell to the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss through the compassion of Namo Amituofo and Practitioner Su.
The Reflection of a Nation's Founder
This is a record of an interview with Kim Il Sung, the founder and former leader of North Korea, 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 the spiritual truths he has realised since his passing thirty-two years ago. Recorded by the chief writer, Venerable Fa Hui, on May 18, 2026.
About the Author
Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre
Contributed to Pure Land Buddhism knowledge library