Venerable Chang Ren is a dedicated monastic who provides guidance to those seeking spiritual liberation. This interview was recorded on May 28, 2019, at the Hsiang Kuang Buddhist Centre, where the Venerable continues to offer teachings on the path to the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss.
Venerable Chang Ren speaks:
". In the course of our practice, we often find ourselves in situations where we know exactly what is right, yet the human heart persists in acting against its own better judgment. We are fully aware that there is a proper way to conduct ourselves and a moral path to follow in our dealings with others. However, the human heart is so easily swayed by self-interest. In the end, people frequently choose to act in ways that defy these fundamental truths. For the sake of , people will do almost anything—even things that are morally bankrupt. They would rather protect their own interests than commit to the path of true sincerity.
The Mirror of the Heart
Is your heart truly sincere? There is no need to speak of it, for I can see it clearly. I see it all. I look at all of you and I ask: are you truly sincere in your desire to perform , or are you merely acting out of a desire for your own benefit? It is all quite obvious. If you continue to cling to a single erroneous thought, you risk squandering this magnificent and rare opportunity. That would be a tragedy of the highest order. If you only want what is best for yourselves and seek the greatest personal gain, it will be impossible to resolve the conflicts with your . If you truly wish to cultivate a clear and bright heart, I urge you to bring forth that genuine clarity. Do not hide an unclear, clouded heart deep within your soul.
Integrity in the Eyes of Sentient Beings
The entire universe is watching. You must not harbour any deviant thoughts. Your heart should be honest, and everything you do must be grounded in sincerity and reverence. Integrity is the one thing that sentient beings care about most. If your actions cause these beings to lose respect for you, then the task of delivering them becomes infinitely more difficult. They are watching you. They see every move you make with perfect clarity. Therefore, in your practice, you must learn to cultivate this 'clear understanding' and protect the quality of your own spirit. Only then will you retain the respect of the universe. Without this, your path will be one of great hardship.
The Weight of Karmic Debts
Remember this well: do not lose the great for the sake of the small. In this world, any problem that can be solved with money is a minor issue. But when the time comes that money can no longer solve your problems, no amount of wealth will be able to save you from the consequences of being encroached upon by beings. These beings are highly sensitive. If you truly wish to resolve the relationships forged over many lifetimes, you must bring forth a sincere heart. No matter what method you use, you must exert your utmost effort. Especially when it comes to Chao Du, you must not let your own selfish calculations interfere. You must complete the work with total sincerity and dedication. To encounter the Great in this lifetime is a momentous event that you must cherish above all else. You must be proactive in helping these beings achieve rebirth in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss.
A Heart of Gratitude
You must know how to be grateful for the of the Buddha. Be grateful that the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre exists in this world, and be grateful for the immense compassion and mind-capacity of Grandmother. Namo Amituofo."
Venerable Chang Ren
This interview was recorded by the disciple Shi Faxi.
