The Oneness of All Beings: Returning to the Original Nature

The Diversity of the Worldly Realm

The worldly realm is composed of both sentient and non-sentient beings. The six realms of existence are formed according to the direction of one's heart and the weight of one's accumulated karma. It is because of the mind that beings differ; it is because of the mind that spirits find their respective paths, leading to different forms of rebirth—some with physical bodies, and others without.

The material world and the world of human emotion and consciousness are distinct. However, although these categories appear different, they all return to the same source. Every single being, regardless of their category or form, possesses the same original nature. While their external appearances and mental states may differ, their true self-nature is identical.

The Foundation of Oneness

For those who seek to realise their true nature, the concept of the Oneness of all things is fundamental. It is the basis for establishing a heart of equality, which respects that every being possesses the Buddha-nature. Within this perspective of Oneness and equality, one can clearly understand that since beginningless time, the accumulation of karma and the pollution of the mind have created the distinctions between Buddhas, demons, and ordinary beings. Yet, despite these classifications, they all return to the same origin: they all possess the same original nature.

Because this original nature has been covered by layers of delusion, the mind creates endless varieties of life forms. Therefore, whether one is a demon, a being in the six realms, or a being from this world or another, all can be purified through practice. By purifying the mind, one can reveal the original nature. To realise one's true nature and attain Buddhahood is to return to this state of Oneness. This has been the ultimate goal of practitioners across the ten directions of the Dharma Realm since ancient times.

The Urgency of the Human Life

The process of this practice requires a great deal of effort in purification. During the brief and limited period of a human life, if one wishes to practise and realise one's true nature, one must be diligent every second. One must fear that the end of life might arrive before one has achieved this Awakening. This has been the great regret of many practitioners throughout history, as they wonder when they will have another opportunity to return to this Oneness in future lives.

At the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre, our practice relies on the support of two powers: our own self-power and the power of Namo Amituofo. If you can live in the present moment and chant Namo Amituofo all the way, you will receive the magnificent benefits of purification and Awakening through Buddha-recitation.

The Transformation of Spirits

All beings possess a spirit. Whether they are born from a womb, an egg, moisture, or transformation, they all have a true self that coexists with their original nature. It is only because their original nature is covered that they are governed by the karma created by their true self and the beings residing within them, causing them to exist in their respective spaces.

If one can chant Namo Amituofo, then under the blessings of the Buddha, the space in which these beings are trapped can be opened. Through the collective chanting of the practitioner and the illumination of the Buddha’s light, these beings can:

• Break free from their confined spaces.
• Elevate the quality of their spirit.
• Transcend the karmic cycles of birth from a womb, egg, moisture, or transformation.
• Receive Chao Du to be reborn in the human or heavenly realms.
• Be guided by the Buddha’s light to the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss through diligent chanting.

This is the inconceivable and magnificent benefit of combining one's own practice with the power of Namo Amituofo. If you can realise your true nature, then all these different categories will finally return to the One. Namo Amituofo.