The Path to Awakening: An Interview with Master Zhangjia

The Infinite Treasure Within

What is it that people in the modern world desire most? Often, we seek an all-knowing and all-powerful state—a condition where we possess everything we need, where every question is answered, and every doubt is resolved. We yearn for a wisdom that is always with us, ready to be utilised at a moment's notice, requiring no financial cost to acquire and possessing no expiration date. Once obtained, it would be a treasure that we could use freely and permanently. But what is this extraordinary thing, and why does it seem so elusive?

In truth, the world remains largely unaware that such a treasure is already within our grasp. The Buddha and the Buddha’s teachings reveal that this is not a unique possession of the enlightened; rather, it is something that every single being already possesses. It is our true self, our original nature. It is the very essence of the Buddha. Every person has the potential to be exactly like the Buddha. There is no need to envy the Buddha’s profound wisdom or his ability to answer any question with perfect clarity. We all possess this capacity, yet it has been covered up by layers of delusion and ignorance.

Clearing the Layers of Filth

The reason we cannot see this nature is that it has been covered up by the filth of our past actions and attachments. The Buddha discovered this truth and shared it with us so that we might understand our own potential. Through diligent practice, the Buddha cleared away the layers of defilement that veiled his true nature. As these layers were removed, his Buddha-nature gradually manifested until it was fully revealed, leading to the state of Awakening and Buddhahood. If we do not receive the guidance of the Buddha’s teachings, we remain unaware of this possibility, which is a truly profound tragedy. Without this knowledge, our true self remains trapped, accompanying us through life after life in the cycle of reincarnation, causing our spirits to suffer needlessly in the six realms of existence.

We do not have to continue this cycle of suffering. Once you find your true self, you will attain true happiness, inner peace, and complete freedom. No person and no event will ever be able to bind or constrain you again. However, finding this true self requires immense effort. Without diligent practice, it is impossible to uncover the Buddha-nature, as the dust of our worldly attachments is too thick, too deep, and too vast. You must dedicate your spirit and your time wholeheartedly to your practice. Furthermore, you must rely on the teachings of the Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, and true spiritual friends to ensure you remain on the righteous path. With their guidance, you can find your way back to your true self accurately and swiftly, avoiding the pitfalls of delusion and the danger of losing your direction, which would only make the goal of Awakening seem even more distant.

The Sanctuary for Spiritual Return

This vital work of spiritual recovery is currently taking place at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre. Within this sacred space, the teachings and guidance of Namo Amituofo and Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju are ever-present. Under the compassionate care and leadership of Practitioner Su, and with the constant vigilance of the Dragon and Heaven Dharma Protectors, we are helping all who come to the centre to engage in diligent practice. Our goal is to help you rediscover your true self and Buddha-nature, and to successfully fulfil your vow to be reborn in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss.

Practitioner Su is working tirelessly to ensure that everyone understands the importance of this path. Namo Amituofo also expresses the hope that Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju will join in the mission of promoting and propagating this essential teaching. We have been working with great dedication for some time now, and everyone has given their utmost effort. At this moment, we are waiting for the Teacher to make a breakthrough—to come to the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre to meet with Namo Amituofo. This visit would represent the vital first step in this great undertaking.

A Call to the Path of Awakening

We are all waiting for this first step to be taken. There are countless spirits in the spiritual realms who share a karmic affinity with the Teacher, and they are waiting for the opportunity to enter the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. As soon as the Teacher steps into the temple, these beings who are waiting to be reborn will have the chance to see their wishes fulfilled. We are waiting, and the path to Awakening remains open to all who are ready to return home.

Namo Amituofo