The Path of True Practice: A Discourse from Namo Amituofo

The Buddha’s teachings are not merely empty words to be debated on paper. They are a profound call to action that demands we focus on the true essence of our existence: the True Meaning and the True Practice. To truly progress, one must move beyond theory and into the realm of authentic, lived experience.

Beyond Theory: The Path of Realisation

If you do not engage in actual, verified practice, it is difficult to enter the state of clarity, purity, and goodness. However, if you can attain purity and then deepen that purity, and if you can cultivate goodness and then expand that goodness, you will eventually realise your true nature. This is the integration of faith, understanding, and practice, which leads to the realisation of the Buddha-fruit of Awakening. Throughout history, how many have truly attained this? Practitioner Su is one such individual who has realised this truth.

The Unburdened Heart

Those who engage in True Practice must understand that the sincere heart is priceless. The past is gone; do not look back. Even if you could return to that moment, it would no longer be the same. Do not let the fluctuations of your mental notes stain your sincere heart. You must rely on the True Meaning to enter into True Practice:

• Study the Infinite Life Sutra (The Buddha Speaks the Mahayana, Infinite Life, Adornment, Purity, Impartiality, and Enlightenment Sutra):
• Every word within this sutra contains the True Meaning; you must accept it with faith and put it into practice.Follow the Guidance: Adhere to the teachings provided by the Buddha and your teachers, and follow the guidance of Practitioner Su to change your ways and engage in authentic action.

The Foundation of True Practice

Every step you take must be firm and grounded. True practice is not a fleeting illusion or a dream; it is a concrete, daily commitment. Everything you do should be for the sake of all beings, not for yourself. By cultivating selflessness, no-self, and a mind that is free from attachment, you are engaging in the True Practice of the Tathagata. As you transition from the dust of the mundane world into the pure land of the heart, your mind will naturally become clear and extraordinary.

The Path of Compassion and Diligence

You must be compassionate and fiercely diligent in your practice, for this is the only way to reach the time of awakening and seeing your true nature. This is what we call the True Practice of Diligence. Consider these essential aspects of your daily path:

• Repentance and Reform:
• Truly repent and change your ways. Practice self-restraint so that you do not repeat past mistakes.Inviting Spirits:
• By inviting spirits to hear the Dharma, you help resolve the conflict and save them, leading them to rebirth in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. This is the True Practice of Reform.Stopping Anger: Be compassionate and gentle. Do not let anger arise, for it will burn down your forest of merits. Only when you stop anger can your practice truly progress. This is the True Practice of Restraint.

The Ultimate Goal: Rebirth in the West

When your meditative concentration is strong, you will be able to remain stable and unmoved by external disturbances. You will then be able to save the suffering beings who are waiting for your help, guiding them away from the sea of fire and towards liberation. This is the True Practice of Compassion. You must keep the Precepts, fulfil your responsibilities, and never be lax; this is the basic practice of the Buddha’s gate. You must be grateful and content, for this will naturally bring a smile to your face. A smiling face can resolve a thousand sorrows and dissolve a thousand worries. To "see through" and "let go" is the mark of wisdom. Keep the six-character name of Namo Amituofo with you at all times, and your wish to be reborn in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss will be fulfilled. This is the True Practice of Rebirth.

Namo Amituofo