The Nature of the Mind and the True Self

Words of Namo Amituofo, recorded and transcribed by Namo Amituofo’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe, on March 14, 2026.

Namo Amituofo teaches us that the diverse nations, cultures, and environments of this world are the primary forces that shape the character and mind-nature of humanity. Because we are born into different circumstances, we naturally adopt different languages, scripts, and modes of expression. These external factors dictate how we behave and interact with the world around us.

The Roots of Our Personality

We must understand that our character is essentially a product of our karma. Because every being carries a unique accumulation of past actions, we each possess a distinct personality and mind-nature. However, beneath these layers of conditioning, every single being possesses an original, true self. This true self is not limited to one place or one people; it is the fundamental essence of every being in this world, in other realms, and throughout the entire Ten Directions (of the Dharma Realm).

The true self is defined by its eternal, unchanging qualities: it is neither born nor destroyed, existing beyond the constraints of time; it is neither defiled nor pure, remaining untainted by the dust of the world; and it is neither increased nor decreased, for it is already complete and perfect in its original state. This true self does not change, nor does it diminish, regardless of the cultural background, environment, or temperament we may have. It remains constant even when we use different languages, adopt different social customs, or express ourselves through varying behaviours.

The Manifestation of True Wisdom

Qualities such as kindness, gentleness, compassion, and wisdom are inherent to our true self. For the Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, and those who have realised their true nature, these qualities are not subject to the shifts of time or the boundaries of space. They are the natural expression of an awakened heart.

Furthermore, the true self has the profound ability to manifest all phenomena. It can appear in countless forms across different times and spaces to teach and deliver sentient beings. This is the true meaning of "True Emptiness giving rise to Wonderful Existence." By understanding this, we realise that our true nature is not a static void, but a dynamic source of infinite compassion and skilful means.

Discerning the Path of Growth

When different national cultures interact and merge, they inevitably create new ways of living and new social standards. We must learn to evaluate these changes with wisdom. If these new ways of living help us to support one another and elevate our spiritual quality, then they are positive and beneficial changes. If these social standards lead to the degradation of our hearts and spirits, then they are negative and harmful changes. In the latter case, one should have the courage to distance oneself from such influences, adjusting one's life to remain on the right path.

If we can view all beings through the lens of oneness—a fusion of kindness, gentleness, compassion, and wisdom—we will open the doors to our hearts and find true joy. These virtues are already complete within the Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, and those who have realised their true nature; they lack nothing.

The Shortcut to Buddhahood

From these teachings, we can see that even amidst the vast differences in time, space, culture, and language, every being has the potential to return to their true self. By diligently practising, one can achieve Awakening, realise one's true nature and attain Buddhahood. This is the ultimate result of the continuous elevation of our spiritual quality.

To achieve this, we must embrace the most direct path: Awaken the Bodhicitta and maintain a single-minded focus by dedicating yourself entirely to chanting the Buddha's name. This practice of chanting the Buddha's name is the supreme shortcut to the Buddha's path. It is the most wonderful method for leaving suffering and gaining happiness, and it is the surest way to be reborn in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. Regardless of your background, culture, or language, this practice is the key that will help you rediscover your true self and return home to the light of Namo Amituofo.

Namo Amituofo