The Infinite Nature of Space and the Dharma

Words of Namo Amituofo, recorded and transcribed by Namo Amituofo’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe.

The Microcosm Within

Within the vast expanse of existence, there is space within space. Consider your own physical body; it is a small universe unto itself, containing an uncountable number of cells. Each of these cells is, in truth, a sentient being. Like all beings, they possess the eight consciousnesses and the fifty-one mental factors. Within each cell, there exists both space and the presence of a spirit. Similarly, outside of each cell, there is further space and the presence of external spirits. In reality, the space within a cell is not singular; it is a fractal reality where space contains yet more space.

The Life Cycle of Space

The number of spaces within a single cell is not fixed. It fluctuates in accordance with the life cycle of that cell. As a cell matures and awakens, it generates a greater number of internal spaces. Conversely, cells that have a shorter life span or those that remain in a state of dormancy generate fewer spaces. Every cell in your body performs a unique and vital function. These functions are the direct manifestation of the karmic relationship between the cell’s current life and the true self of this body. Within these functions, both good karma and negative karma are at play. Therefore, we must recognise that our cells are themselves beings bound by the laws of karma.

The Infinite Reach of the Dharma Realm

This phenomenon of infinite space is not limited to the interior of the human body. It is a universal condition that extends into the boundless space outside of us. Throughout the universe, there are beings existing in countless different forms. People often limit their understanding to the three states of matter—solids, liquids, and gases—yet within all of these, space and sentient beings exist. By the same logic, we can infer that every planet, every solar system, the entire Milky Way, and the vast Dharma Realm are filled with infinite spaces and countless sentient beings.

Universal Compassion and Unity

If we view the entirety of existence through a holistic lens, we see that these infinite spaces and beings include the ancestors, teachers, karmic creditors, and family members of all the fourfold assembly of disciples throughout our many past lifetimes. Because of this deep, interconnected history, we should treat all beings—whether they seem close to us or distant—as one. We must hold them in the highest respect. By doing so, we can resolve the conflict of our past, dissolve our negative karma, and find peace. This is the conduct that every person dedicated to saving the world and rescuing beings must embody.

The Power of the Holy Name

The holy name of Namo Amituofo possesses the supreme power to transcend the limitations of both time and space. When the beings within the infinite spaces of your body, the beings within the solids, liquids, and gases of your environment, and even the beings throughout the planets, the Milky Way, and the entire Dharma Realm hear this holy name, they are moved to open up space. Through this, they receive purification and are guided by Chao Du to the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. This holy name is the ultimate hope for all infinite spaces and all infinite beings. Namo Amituofo.