The Path of True Obedience
An Interview with Venerable Yongning
Recorded on April 10, 2019
Venerable Yongning, a monastic who sought deliverance at the Hsiang Kuang Buddhist Centre in Australia, where she currently resides and continues her practice, shared these reflections on April 10, 2019. This interview was recorded by the chief writer, Shi Faxin.
Venerable Yongning speaks:
"Namo Amituofo. Human beings are originally empty of inherent nature. It is only after we acquire this physical body that the sensations of the flesh lead us to believe that we possess everything. In that state of emptiness, nothing acts as an obstacle. Yet, within the state of 'having,' we experience every emotion and every sensation. This physical body is truly significant. Its importance lies in the fact that every single cell within each person can be utilised to its maximum potential. In secular terms, the concept of having is difficult to believe, but in the practice of the Buddha’s teachings, it is a very real process of purifying every single cell.
The Power of the Buddha-name
The most effective method for this is the constant infusion of the Buddha-name, maintained without interruption, 24/7. What one must overcome are the many impurities present in the external environment. One must ask: Can I see everything clearly? Is my mind-capacity large enough to encompass all things? When arise, can I immediately let them go? In every subtle thought and intention that arises, I must adjust myself; in every expression and every movement, I must refine my conduct.
In the course of practice, maintaining proper dignity, gentleness, and sincerity is not something that can be cultivated overnight. It requires constant, repetitive practice. One must raise one's own awareness; only by first saving oneself can one truly save others. The talks provided by Practitioner Su are simple and easy to understand, but to truly apply them in one's practice requires a great deal of effort. Following by the side of Practitioner Su, beyond performing , I have also been diligent in my practice, constantly adjusting myself. Practitioner Su’s Dharma talks explain the subtle details of and mind so thoroughly and clearly.
The Path of Selfless Service
If not for the fact that Practitioner Su’s teachings are rooted entirely in Goodness, and are completely selfless and devoid of ego, there would not be so many Bodhisattvas in the universe willing to surrender and follow this path. There is no such thing as a free lunch in this world, and one certainly cannot expect to see results immediately. Patience and perseverance are indispensable elements of practice. I deeply cherish this magnificent Dharma that allows us to unlock the potential of the human body and assist all spirits.
I am also profoundly grateful to Practitioner Su for opening up my space, allowing me to perform Chao Du for the sentient beings with karmic affinity from my past lives. When I see that these spaces still exist, I urge everyone: there is nothing that cannot be let go. In the past, we were reincarnated because we could not let go; if we continue to cling to things in this life, we will once again walk the path of samsara. That would be a waste of the magnificent opportunity to encounter the True Teachings.
A Call to True Practice
By seeing clearly that all things are empty and illusory, and by truly experiencing this, one can wake up and find the courage to overcome all obstacles. Under the leadership of Practitioner Su, the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre does not only bear the suffering of sentient beings but also teaches the fourfold assembly. Every subtle habit, every single thought and intention—if not for the genuine purification provided by Practitioner Su, one could not attain such skills. Everyone should cherish this deeply. Be a practitioner who truly knows how to listen, for the one who ultimately benefits is yourself.
Namo Amituofo."
More from Master Yongning
The Path to a Pure Heart
Venerable Yongning discusses the profound necessity of purifying the heart, explaining how the depth of one's practice is determined by the degree to which one can relinquish the self and worldly attachments.
The Transformation from Demon to Practitioner
Venerable Yongning shares his profound journey from a powerful demon to a dedicated practitioner, reflecting on the transformative power of the Dharma and the moment he was subdued by Practitioner Su.
The Prison of a Stubborn Heart
Venerable Yongning explores the destructive nature of stubbornness, revealing how a rigid heart traps spirits in cycles of suffering and how letting go is the only path to liberation.
Transcending the Cycle of Suffering
Venerable Yongning reflects on the root causes of human suffering, the profound regret of spirits trapped in the cycle of rebirth, and the path to liberation through repentance and chanting Namo Amituofo.
More by Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre
The Final Curtain Call of Chu Ke-liang
A candid reflection from the late Taiwanese entertainer Chu Ke-liang on his life, his career, the karmic weight of his influence, and his ultimate deliverance to the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss.
The Soul's True Equality: A Conversation with Mahatma Gandhi
This is a record of an interview with Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, who sought deliverance at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia. He now resides in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. This account reflects upon his life and his journey to the Pure Land.
A Reflection from the Western Pure Land
This is a record of an interview with Zhao Puchu, who sought deliverance at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia. He now resides in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. This account reflects upon his life in the 20th century. Recorded by the chief writer, Shi Fa Hui, on April 18, 2026.
The Truth Behind My Rebirth: A Message from Liu Suqing
Liu Suqing, the elder sister of the renowned practitioner Liu Suyun, shares her harrowing journey through the spirit realms and her ultimate deliverance to the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss through the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre.
The Burden of a Historical Name
This is a record of an interview with Lin Biao, who sought Chao Du at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia. He now resides in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. This account reflects upon his life approximately 54 years ago. Recorded by the chief writer, Shi Fa, on May 18, 2026.
The Poet’s Journey to the Western Pure Land
A reflection on the life, tragedy, and ultimate spiritual liberation of the ancient statesman Qu Yuan, who found peace through the teachings of Practitioner Su.
About the Author
Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre
Contributed to Pure Land Buddhism knowledge library