The Nature of Appearances and the Path to Awakening
Teachings from National Master Xianshou
Recorded on January 10, 2020
The Veils of Illusion
On the tenth of January, 2020, National Master Xianshou offered these profound teachings on the nature of what we perceive in our daily lives. National Master Xianshou asks us to consider: which of the true appearances, false appearances, illusory appearances, dream appearances, mental note appearances, or desire appearances can truly be called real? We are surrounded by layers upon layers of appearances that overlap within the vastness of space. We see no thickness or thinness, yet with every single mental note, a new appearance arises. With every thought, a new appearance is formed. These subtle waves of thought coalesce into appearances, rising like the relentless, surging waves of an ocean that never cease.
Our right is like a piece of driftwood floating upon these waves. It rises and falls, struggling to find stability. The brilliant light of our true nature finds it difficult to enter this sea of illusion, while the profound darkness makes it nearly impossible to see the light. Within this darkness, countless hidden appearances lie dormant, waiting to manifest. It is difficult to purify them all and return to a state of emptiness. If we are not like that driftwood, surviving the waves, the darkness of the underworld will surely invade our hearts. If your will is firm, you can hold your ground; if your will is weak, you will be led astray. Consider how many waves have already tested your heart. These various appearances feel as real as if they were standing right before you. In the midst of the rolling red dust of the mundane world, where temptations are ever-present, how can you clearly discern the direction of your heart? You must learn to abandon every worldly attachment, and in the midst of emptiness and existence, return to the original, true nature.
The Dimensions of
National Master Xianshou, observing from the perspective of a protector, perceives the various dimensions of space that exist within us:
- The space within the physical body: The vessel that houses our .
- The space within the air: The environment that surrounds us.
- The space within our thoughts: The realm where our mental processes unfold.
- The space within our dreams: The subconscious landscape where we wander at night.
- The space within our desires: The cravings that pull us toward the mundane.
These layers of space overlap, arise, and exist together. They form a powerful force of control that interferes with the autonomy of the physical body. They constantly pull at the corresponding spaces within our bodies, attracting and tugging at one another. Although the power of right mindfulness constantly resists, we remain limited by the laws of and cause and effect. We continue to float and sink within these appearances, unable to form a powerful, unified force that supports our right mindfulness against the interference of our own thoughts.
Aligning with the Universal Principle
Even if we resist for a moment, we cannot sustain this effort to become a continuous energy that moves us forward. If the mental notes of the physical body are not in sync with the Universal Principle, the Truth, and the Right Way, the spaces within cannot resonate with one another. Naturally, they cannot produce the harmonious reaction of mutual attraction. This is why the interference of karma is always stronger than the infusion of the Buddha's power. We must now ask: can we transform the mental notes within our physical bodies? We must strive to generate the heart of saving all beings. Only then can we summon the corresponding energy to break through the temptations of these various appearances. We must strengthen our resolve and plant this seed of deeply within our hearts. By constantly applying energy and nourishing it with the pure water of the , we will eventually succeed.
The Magnificent Fruit of Buddhahood
One day, this seed will grow into a great tree that can shade us from the scorching sun. We will become like a dragon swimming freely in the ocean, unburdened and at ease. We will walk the path of the Truth, breaking through the obsessions of the mundane world. We will see all things as they truly are, saving ourselves and saving others, ultimately achieving the supreme and magnificent fruit of Buddhahood. Namo Amituofo.
Recorded by the Buddha's disciple, Shi Facie.
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About the Author
Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre
Contributed to Pure Land Buddhism knowledge library