The Mastery of the Heart and Mind
An Interview with Venerable Changren
Recorded on September 22, 2018
Venerable Changren, a monastic practitioner, shared these profound insights on the cultivation of the heart and mind. This teaching was recorded on September 22, 2018, and transcribed by the chief writer, Shi Faxi, to provide guidance for those seeking to navigate the complexities of the world through the practice of the .
Venerable Changren speaks:
"Namo Amituofo. Within the chaotic nature of the human heart, a multitude of conflicting personalities and complex emotions are constantly swirling. Most people do not truly understand the vital importance of having a 'master' of the heart—a core of stability. Instead, they simply follow the whims of their own minds, spinning in endless circles. Even when one knows deep down that a certain action is wrong, in moments when the mind is clouded and confused, one is simply unable to take charge. One is swept away by these internal mutations and external interferences, which fundamentally alter the original purity of one's hearts and actions.
The Nature of Worldly Change
This is a common occurrence in this world, and it is a truth that most people fail to grasp. Because people constantly follow the fluctuations of their own personalities, their circumstances also become unstable and unpredictable. Outcomes that could have been positive are often distorted or changed entirely due to the rigidity or volatility of one's own character. The world presents us with many trials at different levels, and every Causal Condition we encounter is a unique test. Only those who can pass these tests have the possibility of becoming different, of achieving true spiritual elevation. This is precisely what practice is about: understanding these principles. It is the cultivation of an unmoving heart, a process of purification and nourishment. These trials are, in reality, the practice of Meditation (Concentration) in the midst of movement.
Transcending the Five Turbidities
The many changes and upheavals we see are clear manifestations of this Five Turbidities and Evil World. Can you truly liberate yourself from this cycle? That depends entirely on whether you are genuinely willing to practise. The practice is about refining your personality, but it requires a sincere willingness to transform. I have observed many problems, both large and small, in this world. In truth, none of them are the real problem. The true problem resides within your own heart. If you can make the change—if you can turn your heart toward purity and light—you will eventually attain ultimate clarity and brightness.
A Heart of Gratitude
I am deeply grateful for all these magnificent Causal Conditions. I am grateful to Grandma, and I am eternally grateful to Namo Amituofo. May the Buddha’s shine upon us all. Namo Amituofo."
More from Master Chang Ren
Letting Go of Past Pain
Venerable Changren shares his journey from a life of deep-seated resentment and demonic existence to his current path of deliverance, offering profound insights on how to release the burdens of the past.
Purifying the Thoughts of the Head
Venerable Chang Ren discusses the habitual nature of human thought, the spiritual consequences of a cluttered mind, and practical methods for achieving mental purity through the practice of Namo Amituofo.
The Labyrinth Within: Understanding the Space of Thoughts
Venerable Chang Ren, a practitioner at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre, explores the complex, layered spiritual spaces created by our thoughts, explaining how these mental landscapes are often influenced by karmic forces and how we can regain mastery over our own minds.
The Occupied Body: A Spiritual Reality
Venerable Chang Ren reveals the hidden truth behind the aging process and physical illness, explaining how uncorrected personality flaws create loopholes that allow spirits and karmic creditors to occupy the human body.
More by Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre
The Final Curtain Call of Chu Ke-liang
A candid reflection from the late Taiwanese entertainer Chu Ke-liang on his life, his career, the karmic weight of his influence, and his ultimate deliverance to the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss.
The Soul's True Equality: A Conversation with Mahatma Gandhi
This is a record of an interview with Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, who sought deliverance at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia. He now resides in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. This account reflects upon his life and his journey to the Pure Land.
A Reflection from the Western Pure Land
This is a record of an interview with Zhao Puchu, who sought deliverance at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia. He now resides in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. This account reflects upon his life in the 20th century. Recorded by the chief writer, Shi Fa Hui, on April 18, 2026.
The Truth Behind My Rebirth: A Message from Liu Suqing
Liu Suqing, the elder sister of the renowned practitioner Liu Suyun, shares her harrowing journey through the spirit realms and her ultimate deliverance to the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss through the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre.
The Burden of a Historical Name
This is a record of an interview with Lin Biao, who sought Chao Du at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia. He now resides in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. This account reflects upon his life approximately 54 years ago. Recorded by the chief writer, Shi Fa, on May 18, 2026.
The Poet’s Journey to the Western Pure Land
A reflection on the life, tragedy, and ultimate spiritual liberation of the ancient statesman Qu Yuan, who found peace through the teachings of Practitioner Su.
About the Author
Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre
Contributed to Pure Land Buddhism knowledge library