The Path of Diligent Practice
Teachings from National Master Xianshou
Recorded on October 6, 2017
The Essential Foundation of Life
On the sixth of October, 2017, National Master Xianshou provided these essential teachings on the nature of our spiritual journey. To engage in active and persistent practice is not merely an optional activity; it is a fundamental requirement for navigating the lessons of human life. We must learn to make excellent use of our limited lifespan to uncover the immeasurable and boundless life of the . Our ultimate goal is to rescue immeasurable and boundless sentient beings, and to walk this path with a heart that is completely at ease is sufficient for this lifetime.
When you reach this stage of understanding, you will find that your path forward becomes clear. In the very moment you attain this clarity, your true self will naturally manifest. This is the greatest of all . If you wish to gain something of true value, you must be willing to give of yourself. You must be prepared to both offer and receive, ensuring that every single minute and second is utilised with wisdom and purpose. Imagine that your life is coming to an end; there is no time to borrow from tomorrow. Where, then, does your diligent practice truly lie?
How to Practise with Diligence
You may ask, how does one practise diligently? Many people mistakenly believe that diligent practice means merely reading or memorising texts with intense effort. However, true practice is about being fully present in the current moment. You must clearly understand the period in which you live. Observe the world around you in all directions and recognise how everything relates to your own practice. This is the perfect opportunity to apply your efforts.
- Observe well: Pay attention to what manifests before you.
- Ask well: Seek answers to the questions that arise in your heart.
- Listen well: Hear the teachings with a sincere mind.
- Speak well: Share the knowledge you have gained with .
By doing this, you are already making progress. As you advance, you will refine your conduct, and you will know exactly how to act in any given situation. This is the true attainment. You must ensure that you never retreat from this path, for there is no reason to turn back. When you are free from obstacles and nothing can block your way, you can follow your vows and move forward without restriction. There is no place you cannot reach and no time when you cannot make progress.
The Mission of the
The time for action is now. You must respond to the needs of the present, extending the wisdom of the past into the modern era. Every challenge you face is a lesson that must be confronted directly. You must address each issue one by one, absorbing the lessons from every experience so that they may subtly transform your character. Furthermore, you must ensure that no sentient being is left behind. We must guide them all back to the Universal Principle, the Truth, and the Right Way, for this is the ultimate destination.
This does not mean we withhold our help; rather, it means we must be firm in our resolve to guide all beings toward rebirth in the . Regardless of the era or the circumstances, every age has its own unique mission. The fourfold community of disciples—monastics and lay practitioners alike—each has vital responsibilities. You must each fulfil your specific roles and bring your unique talents to the service of the .
The Eternal Truth of the Buddha’s Teachings
The Sutra, Vinaya, and Abhidharma Pitakas contain the very essence of the Buddha’s teachings. While the world changes, the Truth remains constant throughout the ages. However, the way we communicate these teachings must adapt to the times. In the past, the language was classical and formal; today, we must use clear, accessible language so that people can truly understand and appreciate the profound wisdom of the ancients.
We must protect the integrity of these teachings through clear and concise translations. Whenever you have the opportunity, you should study these texts. The , with its twelve divisions, is filled with essential lessons. Whoever realises their true self will find that all these truths are already contained within. The ultimate goal of studying the Buddha’s teachings is to become a Buddha. Once you have achieved the Buddha’s path, you will be able to save all sentient beings and help them become Buddhas as well.
All Buddhas walk the same path, and this path encompasses all phenomena. Within the Dharma, there is unity, and within that unity, there is diversity. Let us walk the Buddha’s path together, and together, let us return to the Western Pure Land. This teaching was recorded by the chief writer, Venerable HaiZe.
Namo Amituofo
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About the Author
Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre
Contributed to Pure Land Buddhism knowledge library