You must understand that it is only by possessing a human body that you have the opportunity to realise your true nature. This is the profound value of what we call True Cultivation—using the temporary to cultivate the eternal. When a person who has realised their true nature reaches the end of their lifespan, their spirit must eventually depart from the physical form, bringing this particular life to a close.
The journey of an awakened being within the human world has reached its conclusion. When they appear again in the world, they will be completely transformed. Ordinary people will not recognise them, yet they will understand everyone they encounter. This is the nature of the cycle of rebirth for those who have attained a higher state of being.
The Journey of the Awakened Spirit
After the spirit of an awakened being leaves , where does it go? It follows the power of its own vows. Its destination is determined by the specific practices it followed and the vows it made while in the world. Most spirits will return to the associated with their practice, as these Buddha-lands are the true home of the spirit.
The spirit of one who has realised their true nature is of a high quality. They have already:
Ended the cycle of birth and death.
Transcended the Three Realms of existence.
Escaped the ocean of and the cycle of rebirth.
Become free from the pursuit of .
Such a spirit is truly free, coming and going as it pleases. This spirit no longer possesses a heart burdened by worldly discriminations or attachments. Its heart and spirit have become one with the vastness of the Dharma Realm and empty space.
The Three Bodies of the Buddha
A perfect Buddha possesses three distinct bodies, each serving a unique purpose in the salvation of beings:
The : This is the original nature of the Dharma, which pervades the entire Dharma-realm and empty space. It is a state that is neither existent nor non-existent, yet it encompasses all things. It transcends the limitations of the spirit, meaning it does not need to learn or memorise; it is omniscient and omnipotent. It remains still when not needed and manifests when required, flowing naturally with the Dharma. It is able to align with the Universal Principle, the Truth, and the Right Way.
The Reward Body: This is the perfect, dignified form attained after diligent practice and the realisation of Buddhahood. It is exemplified by the majestic appearance of Shakyamuni Buddha after he attained .
The Manifestation Body: This body allows for countless manifestations. It can exist in a spiritual state or appear briefly in any form, not limited to the human body. It can manifest in the exact form of the beings it intends to save.
The Living at Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre
Today, Practitioner Su at Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre embodies these teachings in action. By utilising the Dharma Body, Practitioner Su resolves the conflicts between karmic creditors and their debtors. Through countless manifestations, Practitioner Su performs to save the spirits pervading the entire Dharma-realm and empty space.
Practitioner Su also manifests the Reward Body, showing the perfect dignity of a Buddha and taking on the suffering of beings. This is the Buddha manifesting in the world. You must recognise this as a rare and precious treasure! It is a treasure for all who wish to realise their true nature, attain Buddhahood, and save beings so they may find rebirth in the Western Pure Land.
Cherish this opportunity! Follow these teachings, listen with an open heart, and learn diligently.
