The Path of Sincerity in Every Action

Recorded and transcribed by Namo Amituofo’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe.

On the occasion of the Thrice Yearning Ceremony and Noon Offering held on April 7, 2024, Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju provided the following essential teachings on the path of practice.

The Sacred Duty of Diligence

Practice is not merely an abstract concept; it is a lived experience that manifests in every moment. I urge you to approach every task with the utmost sincerity and diligence. Every action that benefits other beings is a step forward on your spiritual journey. You must exert your greatest effort to complete every task assigned within the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre. Whether you are engaged in outdoor maintenance, working in the kitchen, or performing cleaning duties, these are not merely chores. They are expressions of your compassion, your mind-capacity, and your sincerity. They are the true measure of your inner cultivation and refinement.

Service as a Reflection of the Heart

When you perform each task with earnestness, you demonstrate a profound respect for yourself and for the precious nature of life. This human body is difficult to obtain, and it is a rare vessel for your spiritual journey. Use it wisely. By dedicating your physical efforts to the service of the temple and the community, you create the conditions necessary to transform your karma and eventually realise your true nature. This is the ultimate purpose of your practice.

The Interconnectedness of All Beings

You must remember that you are also one among the infinite number of beings. There is no separation between yourself and others in the eyes of the Dharma. To save other beings is, in essence, to save yourself. To bring benefits to other beings is to bring benefits to your own heart. To rescue other beings from their suffering is to rescue yourself from the cycle of rebirth. By working earnestly in every task, you will come to understand the vital importance of this practice and see that every action is an opportunity to cultivate the seeds of awakening.

Refining the Spirit through Daily Practice

This principle of earnestness must be applied to your formal daily rituals as well. When you participate in the morning service and perform prostrations, do so with complete focus. Listen clearly to every syllable of the Buddha-name as you chant, and ensure that your physical movements are perfectly synchronised with your recitation. When you engage in walking meditation, chant the Buddha-name with clarity, and simultaneously perform Chao Du with a heart full of compassion. When you recite the Sutras, ensure that every word is articulated clearly. Do not allow your mind to wander into intellectualising the meaning of the text; simply recite with a focused mind, and meditative concentration will naturally arise from this state. Do not disregard the importance of small tasks, do not allow arrogance to cloud your judgement, and do not harbour doubt in your heart. Instead, embrace every moment with a heart of gratitude. By doing so, you will steadily elevate your spiritual quality and move closer to the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. Namo Amituofo.