This is a record of an interview with Venerable Chang Ren, who performs at the Hsiang Kuang Buddhist Centre in Australia. He reflects upon his ongoing work in assisting the fourfold assembly in resolving their deep-seated karmic debts. Recorded by the chief writer, Shi Fajing, on July 25, 2023.
Venerable Chang Ren speaks:
". Every single morning, after I have completed the deliverance of countless beings, I follow the compassionate example of Practitioner Su in assisting the fourfold assembly with their own Chao Du. This is the boundless of Practitioner Su, who wishes for the of every member of the fourfold assembly to leave suffering behind as soon as possible. By doing so, she also helps the fourfold assembly to become more clear-minded, allowing them to fully manifest their strength in saving infinite beings.
When I attempt to perform this deliverance, I observe that the heads of every single member of the fourfold assembly are being influenced by their own karmic creditors. Every one of them—without exception. The degree of control varies from person to person, but no one is entirely free from this influence. It is a profound and heavy reality that we must face if we are to truly progress on the path of practice.
The Invisible Control of the Mind
These karmic creditors who control the heads of the fourfold assembly are drawn out by the thoughts arising within those very minds. Within these mental patterns lie extremely strong personality traits—traits that have followed these individuals throughout their many lives. It is precisely when these specific personality traits manifest that the karmic creditors are awakened once again. Think about it—how many times have we allowed our old habits to dictate our reactions, only to find ourselves trapped in the same cycle of suffering we have endured for aeons?
I have observed that among the fourfold assembly, many possess habits of looking down on others or holding negative views. To the average person in this world, this might seem like a trivial or common occurrence. However, when viewed through the lens of and the laws of cause and effect, this is by no means a small matter. It is a significant obstacle that prevents the light of the from shining through.
The Weight of Karmic Habits
A single negative thought can trigger a massive influx of karmic creditors to manifest. Most people never realise how many complex personality traits are hidden within a single negative thought, nor do they see the depth of the bad thinking and evil thoughts that have allowed such habits to take root in their lives. It is quite terrifying when you see the sheer volume of these creditors waiting for the slightest opening to claim their due.
Consider a single look of disdain. That one glance can instantly stir up the from a past life as a royal consort, where one looked down upon other consorts with malice. In that very moment, those past-life figures manifest. I have seen this happen to many people. As soon as these past-life entities stand upon the crown of the disciple's head, they immediately cause the person to become drowsy and enter a state of mental confusion. The disciple, now under control, is completely powerless to resist; they are like a puppet being manipulated by invisible strings, unable to break free from the influence of their own past.
Echoes of Past Lives
I have also observed those who were emperors in past lives. A single look of arrogance or judgment awakens their past karma. Countless innocent victims—their karmic creditors—appear right then and there, pointing fingers at them, demanding repayment, and refusing to let them regain their clarity. It is a heart-wrenching scene to witness, yet it is the inevitable result of the laws of cause and effect. They are trapped by the very power they once wielded, now turned against them by those they harmed in the past.
Everyone carries karma within them. Every symptom or situation that manifests in our lives has a past cause. They appear because certain personality traits or other factors have awakened them. Therefore, everyone must engage in deep self-reflection. We must observe our own mental notes throughout our daily practice, adjusting ourselves step by step. Only through sincere repenting and the making of vows can we resolve these conflicts with our karmic creditors and prevent our karma from being awakened time and time again.
The Path to Liberation
I am actively assisting the fourfold assembly. In the moment of deliverance, as long as a member of the fourfold assembly has even a small, active heart to chant Namo Amituofo and a genuine desire to help other beings, those creditors can be led away under the illumination of the Buddha’s light. It is never too late to turn back, to repent, and to align one's heart with the compassion of Namo Amituofo.
