The Infinite Wisdom and Virtue of the Tathagata

Teacher’s Teachings, recorded and transcribed by Namo Amituofo’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe

The Buddha’s Profound Realisation

During the Second Session of the Thrice Yearning Ceremony, we reflect upon the timeless teachings of the Buddha. When Shakyamuni Buddha first attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree, he uttered a profound truth that resonates through the ages: All beings possess the wisdom and virtue of the Tathagata. This means that every single one of us, without exception, is endowed with an original nature that is perfect, complete, and infinite in its capacity for wisdom, virtue, and auspicious characteristics.

How is it, then, that we find ourselves wandering in the cycle of rebirth, suffering and lost? The Buddha explained that it is only because of our delusions and attachments that we cannot realise this inherent state. We are like dreamers who have forgotten their true home, wandering through a landscape of our own making, unaware that the light of the Buddha-nature is shining within us all the while.

Waking from the Endless Dream

This teaching acts as a sudden, sharp awakening—a call to rouse us from our slumber. Are you still lost in the dream, continuing to create negative karma and endure the resulting suffering? Are you trapped in a cycle of nightmares, or have you begun to stir? To truly awaken, one must commit to the path of practice. You must be willing to let go of the delusions and attachments that cloud your heart. By doing so, you can dissolve your karma and engage in the purification necessary to find your true self once again.

The infinite wisdom, virtue, and auspicious characteristics are not something to be sought outside of yourself. They are the natural inheritance of those who have attained enlightenment. We see the evidence of this in the sacred sutras, in the compassionate guidance of our teachers, and in the radiant, auspicious characteristics manifested by the Buddhas themselves.

The Path of Daily Practice

Awakening is the ultimate goal for all Buddhist practitioners. Therefore, you must constantly examine your own heart. Ask yourself: Is my heart filled with compassion? Does it remain aligned with wisdom and virtue in every moment? This wisdom is revealed through the Three Learnings of Precepts, Samadhi, and Wisdom. It is not merely a theoretical concept; it is a living reality that can be seen in your daily life.

• Precepts:
• By maintaining discipline, you create the foundation for a clear and steady mind.Concentration:
• Through meditative concentration, you quiet the ripples of the mind, allowing the light of your true nature to shine through.Wisdom: As your mind clears, the innate wisdom of the Tathagata naturally manifests, guiding your every action.

Serving Others with a Pure Heart

You must be cautious even in the most subtle aspects of your conduct. True practice is not for the benefit of the self, but for the benefit of all beings. It is through the selfless service of others that you truly grow. As you continue your journey of purification, the capacity of your Six Roots will naturally expand, allowing you to perceive the world with a depth and clarity that was previously hidden from you.

This infinite wisdom, virtue, and auspicious characteristics are inexhaustible. They are a constant, unchanging reality. This is the natural state of one who has realised their true nature. May you continue to chant Namo Amituofo and walk this path with unwavering faith.

Namo Amituofo