The Path to True Clarity

During the Thrice Yearning Ceremony, we invite spirits to join us in the practice of the Dharma. This teaching, recorded by the chief writer, Venerable HaiZe, on 29 August 2020, focuses on the essential quality of clarity.

The Radiance of Your Original Nature

True clarity is the essence of your original nature. It is a state of being that is completely transparent, containing no false or illusory appearances. Every single person possesses this true nature, yet most of us wander through life without knowing where to find it. We are like someone searching for a treasure that is already hidden within their own pocket, unaware that the brilliance we seek is already our own.

The Veils That Obscure Our Vision

Why is this clarity so difficult to perceive? It is because we have not yet achieved true purity and stillness. When the mind is cluttered with attachments and desires, we create obstacles that cloud our vision. These obstacles turn our clear, original nature into something murky and stained. We lose our way because we have forgotten how to look inward, allowing the dust of the world to settle upon the mirror of our heart.

Illuminating the Path Through Practice

To restore this clarity, we must engage in dedicated practice. Namo Amituofo provides us with four essential methods to illuminate our path:

• Prostrations: By bowing to the Buddha, you clear the obstacles within your body and mind, allowing your entire being to become bright and open.
• Chanting Namo Amituofo: When you chant the name of the Buddha, you illuminate the darkness within your heart, bringing peace and focus.
• Reciting the Sutras: This practice helps you understand the truth of reality, allowing you to see the world as it truly is.
• Walking Meditation: By practising mindful walking, you ensure that every step you take is grounded in awareness and clarity.

Awakening to the Eternal Truth

If you can maintain this clarity at all times, you will find yourself in a state of constant awakening. This is the moment when you truly realise your true nature. Do not let these moments pass by. Practise diligently, and you will find that the light of your original nature has been there all along, waiting for you to return to it. Namo Amituofo.