The Path of Selflessness

During the Thrice Yearning Ceremony, we are reminded of the profound importance of the selfless mind. This teaching, provided by Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju, serves as a beacon for all practitioners who seek to walk the path of the Buddha.

The True Meaning of Selflessness

What does it mean to be truly selfless? It is the act of letting go of the "self" entirely. It means you no longer prioritise the interests of your own ego, your immediate family, or your personal circle of relatives. Instead, you focus your heart and mind solely on the collective benefit of all beings. This is the essence of selflessness.

• You do not act for your own gain.You do not seek comfort for your own household.You place the needs of the community above your own desires.You think of the collective welfare before you consider your own requirements.

The Path of Diligent Practice

Selflessness is not merely a concept; it is a way of life that manifests through your actions. When you engage in diligent practice, your ultimate goal is to reach an awakened being state as quickly as possible. By doing so, you create the conditions for all beings to resolve the conflict, leave suffering behind, and attain rebirth in the Western Pure Land. This is the highest form of selflessness.

If you make the interests of the community your absolute priority, you will naturally begin to let go of the rigid frameworks and limitations of the ego. By releasing the attachment to your own personal benefits and those of your family, you will find that you are revealing a brand-new version of yourself—one that is aligned with the Universal Principle, the Truth, and the Right Way.

The Contrast Between Selfishness and Goodness

Conversely, we must recognise what constitutes selfishness. Whenever you act out of exhaustion, fear of being hurt, or a desire to protect your own physical body, you are operating from a place of selfishness. These thoughts and actions are not merely personal preferences; they are the seeds of karma.

• Selfishness is a form of negativity that emits harmful energy and negative entities.Selflessness is a form of Goodness that radiates positive energy and positive vibrations.Selfishness binds you to the cycle of rebirth, while selflessness liberates you.

The Transformation of Karma

When you embody selflessness, you create a powerful shift in your spiritual landscape. This shift allows your karmic creditors to see your sincerity, which in turn makes them willing to resolve the conflict and move forward. This is how you transform karma. Furthermore, selflessness elevates your spirits, guiding you toward an awakened being state. It allows you to accumulate merit and virtue, fostering both wisdom and blessings. When you walk this path, you will find yourself under the watchful care of the Dragon and Heaven Dharma Protectors.

To be a selfless person is to be the most joyful and liberated being in the world. May we all strive to embody this virtue in every moment of our lives.

Recorded by the Buddha's disciple, Venerable HaiZe, acting as chief writer.

Namo Amituofo