The Influence of Fluctuations on the Path to Awakening

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

On the twenty-fifth of January, 2025, during the midday offering, Namo Amituofo provided these essential teachings on the nature of fluctuations and their profound impact on our lives.

The Rhythms of Existence

Fluctuations are present in every aspect of existence. They manifest in various forms, each carrying its own unique energy: mental fluctuations, which are the constant movement and shifting of the heart and mind; water fluctuations, seen in the ripples and waves that move across the surface of water; sound fluctuations, the vibrations that travel through the air; light fluctuations, the waves of light that illuminate our world; earth fluctuations, such as the tremors and vibrations of the ground; and wind fluctuations, representing the varying speeds of the wind, from a gentle breeze to a powerful gale.

Energy is the source of all these various fluctuations. This energy is not neutral; it is shaped by the mental notes and intentions of the one who produces it. Consequently, these fluctuations can be classified into different categories: good energy, evil energy, positive energy, or negative energy.

The Unmoved Mind in a World of Motion

For a practitioner, the depth of one's meditative concentration is the key to navigating these waves. Regardless of the type of fluctuation one encounters, the goal is to remain unmoved. This state of being is what we call true meditative concentration.

When you are established in this state of concentration, your Six Roots become sensitive and alert. You are able to perceive the energy behind the fluctuations and the changes in your environment. You can make clear judgments and respond appropriately. This is the skill of remaining unmoved while the world around you is in motion.

The Radiance of Pure Goodness

When a fluctuation releases good energy, everything within its reach is positively influenced. Consider the Buddha-light: wherever it shines, all beings receive pure and virtuous energy. Under this influence, impurities are extinguished, and goodness is nurtured. Coldness is replaced by warmth, and the turbulence of the mind settles into a state of calm. Beings find satisfaction, joy, and peace of mind, naturally drawing closer to the light. Through this, they are saved by the Buddha, leaving suffering and gaining happiness.

The Shadow of Anger and Its Consequences

Conversely, when one is consumed by anger, the fluctuations of that anger permeate everything they touch. All things in nature are sensitive to this energy. The fluctuations generated by the Body-Mind-Spirit of human beings are absorbed by animals, plants, water, and the very air we breathe. This negative energy manifests as unpleasantness, ugliness, and fear, causing others to retreat and avoid the source.

Furthermore, these negative fluctuations attract entities of anger, such as asuras or other beings that may cause spiritual attachment. This deepens the pollution of one's own actions and invites the appearance of karma and karmic creditors related to that anger.

The Compassionate Duty of the Deliverer

Those who work to save others must remain unmoved, no matter what fluctuations they encounter. They should maintain a heart of gratitude, joyfully receiving the support and illumination of the Buddha-light. They must use their wisdom to counsel and teach those who are angry, helping them to calm their hearts, cease their anger, and avoid creating further evil or negative karmic ties that would obstruct their own spiritual achievements.

You must reflect upon yourself: In the face of these fluctuations, are you the one producing them, are you being influenced by them, or are you able to remain unaffected? Can you truly take charge of your own mind?

Namo Amituofo.