The Nature of Spiritual Spaces

The Eternal Presence of Spirits

Throughout the vast expanse of time, from the beginningless past to the endless future, in every corner of the Dharma Realm and upon this Earth, spirits have always existed. They are everywhere, woven into the very fabric of existence. Regardless of how much time has passed, these spirits remain, existing within the intricate layers of the universe. Because of their varying degrees of purification and the weight of their own Causal Conditions and the causes and effects, these beings reside in different dimensions. Within these densely packed spaces, there are further spaces, and within those, countless spirits are contained.

The Path to Liberation

The spirits residing within these dimensions are bound by their own Causal Conditions and the causes and effects. Some have remained trapped in these spaces for hundreds of millions of years, unable to find a way out. However, when a practitioner with karmic affinity offers compassion through Chao Du, or when they diligently chant Namo Amituofo to purify the environment, these spaces can be opened. Only then do the spirits trapped within have the opportunity to depart and find liberation. From ancient times until the present, regardless of the location, these layered, overlapping spaces have persisted. For the human body, the world outside is structured this way, and the world within is no different.

The Microcosm Within the Body

Within your own body, there are many spaces. They exist within your internal organs and even in the infinitesimal gaps between your cells. These spaces are layered, one within another, yet the spirits residing in different dimensions do not interfere with or disturb one another. Every cell in your body, every one of your karmic creditors, every attached spirit, and even the demon crowds, possesses the Eight Consciousnesses and Fifty-one Mental Factors. They interact with your true self based on the karmic relationships you share, manifesting their own Causal Conditions and the causes and effects.

The Hierarchy of Spiritual Quality

Beings of the six realms of existence and the sages of the Four Sacred Realms all exist in different dimensions, determined by the quality of their spirits. Spirits residing in higher, more refined spiritual dimensions are able to perceive the situations of those in lower realms. Conversely, those in lower realms cannot perceive the states of those in higher dimensions. The life of an ordinary person is often controlled by the momentum of their karma. However, through dedicated practice, one can continuously elevate the quality of their true self until it reaches a state of pure goodness and purity. If you can successfully transform karma, you will be able to realise your true nature and gain autonomy, no longer being controlled by the heavy chains of past actions.

Returning to the True Self

Since time immemorial, as the spirit moves through one life after another, it may exist within the cycle of rebirth. Even though the physical form may change—taking on different faces and appearances—and even though the spirit may exist in different dimensions across this world or others, the spirit itself never disappears or is replaced. It is only subject to purification or pollution. Regardless of how much time passes, your true self remains unborn and unceasing, neither defiled nor pure, neither increasing nor decreasing. It is eternally unchanging. The true purpose of your practice is to wash away the dust of defilement and rediscover this precious, hidden treasure of your original nature.

Namo Amituofo