The Meaning of Migration in the Cycle of Rebirth

Recorded and transcribed by Namo Amituofo’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe.

During the Noon Offering of the Thrice Yearning Ceremony on March 22, 2025, Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju provided profound teachings on the concept of migration.

The Spiritual Significance of Migration

Migration, in its simplest sense, refers to the act of moving from one location to another. However, if you look deeply into the life of a spirit, you will realise that every one of us carries a long, complex record of such migrations. These are not merely limited to moving from one house to another; they encompass the migration of the physical body, the migration between different realms of existence, and the movement between this world and others. Regardless of the nature of these transitions, every migration inevitably brings about a profound vibration and transformation within the heart and spirit. This process inevitably gives rise to the formation of karma.

The Unseen Records of the Alaya Consciousness

Because of the laws of karmic conditions and the causes and effects, these movements ensure that people, events, and environments will eventually have the opportunity to meet again. When these reunions occur, however, individuals have often already gone through the process of reincarnation, changing their physical forms and identities so completely that they no longer recognise one another. Yet, the records stored within the Alaya consciousness and the deep memories of the spirit are never erased. Consequently, the silent work of settling debts, repaying kindness, and resolving grievances continues through the cycle of rebirth. This is the very reason why the cycle of samsara remains continuous and unbroken. The nature of these migrations varies greatly; they may manifest as movements within the human world, the realm of animals, or even the migrations of various earthly creatures.

Cultivating an Unmoved Mind

If, during these transitions, you can maintain a state where your heart and mind remain free from agitation, you will not allow these experiences to enter your consciousness. By doing so, you prevent the formation of new karma, thereby avoiding the necessity of meeting again within the cycle of rebirth. How you migrate, whether you allow your mind to be disturbed by these changes, and whether you are destined to meet again—all of these outcomes depend entirely on the state of your heart. As a practitioner, you must strive to cultivate a state of being where, no matter how or where you migrate, you can always maintain an unmoved mind. When you reach this level of attainment, every place you arrive at becomes a pure environment, a place of Dharma affinity, rather than a place defined by the emotional entanglements of good and evil karma found within the cycle of rebirth. Only in this way can you practise in purity, free from interference and obstacles.

A Rare Opportunity for Pure Practice

At this present time, the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre is situated in Goombungee, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia. For the fourfold assembly of disciples, this location serves to reduce many external distractions and worldly entanglements. It is a precious and rare opportunity for you to engage in pure practice. This is truly a blessing that is not easily attained. Therefore, you must cherish this time and space with all your heart, dedicating yourself fully to your practice as you walk the path toward the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss.

Namo Amituofo