The Journey of Purification

This message was delivered by Venerable Changren at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre. It was recorded on September 5, 2018, by the chief writer, Shi Faxi, to provide guidance to a new practitioner who has sought deliverance at the centre.

Venerable Changren speaks:

"I observe the new male practitioner who has arrived today. The Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre has gained another member, a man of great potential. He is a talent who, if he truly applies himself, can contribute significantly to the work of saving the world. However, one must ask oneself: are you truly willing to set your heart and mind upon this path?

The suffering in this world is vast, yet it cannot be resolved through worldly methods. There is too much volatility and change in the human world; it requires a genuine, profound power to resolve these issues. That power is Prajna wisdom. I ask this practitioner, who has just emerged from the dust of the world: are you truly willing to find your original self again?

The Power of Good Roots

To have the fortune to arrive here is a testament to the good roots you have accumulated over your past lives. Since you have arrived, you must let go of everything you previously thought and everything you previously contemplated. You must begin your learning anew, focusing on the practice of the Pure Land school. You must deeply experience the efficacy of our group cultivation and purification. To truly save all beings, to make a vow for the sake of all beings—that is a power of a different magnitude altogether. Since you have the heart to come here to study the Pure Land teachings, regardless of your initial intentions, now that you are here, you should learn with all your heart.

There is no need to dwell on the rights and wrongs of the past. Here, there is only the journey of purification. If you wish to master the Dharma that can save the world, you must first purify yourself. You must purify all the fluctuations and temperaments within your heart. If you wish to save the world, you must be willing to commit yourself to this learning process.

A Rare Opportunity for Awakening

A human body is difficult to obtain, and the Buddha’s teachings are difficult to hear. Furthermore, this place is a magnificent environment led by the Buddha himself. It is truly no small feat to have entered this space; you must grasp this opportunity firmly. You must also be grateful for the help of the virtuous spirits and Dharma protectors who have guided you along the way. Cherish all these Causal Conditions. Only by doing so will your arrival here hold true meaning.

I welcome your arrival. I am Changren, and I am aware of everything in your past. Let go of your ego and learn anew; that will be the best decision you could ever make. Gratitude to the Grandmother, gratitude to Namo Amituofo. May the Pure Land teachings spread far and wide. Namo Amituofo."