The Power of Pure Thoughts
An Interview with Venerable Changren
Recorded on September 27, 2018
Venerable Changren, who sought deliverance at the Hsiang Kuang Buddhist Centre and now resides there, shares his insights on the cultivation of the mind and the importance of maintaining pure thoughts in a chaotic world. This interview was recorded on September 27, 2018, by the chief writer, Shi Fa Xi, at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia.
Venerable Changren speaks:
"Namo Amituofo. Life is a path one must carve out for oneself. It is like spiritual practice; it is a journey where one must exert effort and cultivate necessary skills. In this chaotic generation, if you wish to preserve the clarity of your true self, your thoughts must be righteous and purely good. If your mind is not pure, your vulnerabilities will be exploited, and you will find yourself becoming something that is no longer truly you.
The Battle for the Mind
Right now, the speed at which spirits are encroaching upon and replacing the of living beings is terrifyingly fast. From where I stand, I can see these subtle movements clearly. How can you still be unwilling to find your way back to your true self? Do not allow yourself to be controlled by external forces. You must reclaim your sovereignty and take back the power to make your own decisions.
Living is a path you find for yourself. Just like spiritual practice, it is a discipline that requires hard work. You must change your ways, improve your character, and refine your spirit. No path is walked in vain, and no suffering is endured for no reason. Everything is self-inflicted, and the outcome depends on whether you choose to seek out goodness or continue to dwell in the evil thoughts that lead to suffering.
The Path of Self-Mastery
The law of cause and effect is the ultimate Truth. There is no such thing as achieving spiritual success without effort. All the plans we make in this world can never keep up with the constant changes of reality. It is far more important to be honest, grounded, and to tread firmly with every step. However, the thoughts within your heart must be corrected. They must align with what is pure and good; only then will you have a smooth path ahead.
Do not poison yourself with your own evil thoughts, harsh words, or negative outlooks. I am responsible for managing this bodhimanda, and I can see the state of everyone's heart clearly. Those who are truly good are worthy of praise, but those who are lacking must quickly repent and change their ways. You will never again encounter such a magnificent place for pure cultivation. I have only ever encountered this one. I hope that everyone will cherish this opportunity and engage in genuine, sincere practice.
A Sanctuary for the Soul
I am filled with gratitude for the and hard work of Practitioner Su. I am deeply thankful for everything she has sacrificed for the sake of all sentient beings, and for the way she educates us all in the Truth. The Buddha’s compassion has descended to dwell in this world, and we, along with all the other spirits, will certainly do our utmost to protect and support this mission. The Buddha’s teachings are so magnificent that they are beyond words. Namo Amituofo."
More from Master Chang Ren
Letting Go of Past Pain
Venerable Changren shares his journey from a life of deep-seated resentment and demonic existence to his current path of deliverance, offering profound insights on how to release the burdens of the past.
Purifying the Thoughts of the Head
Venerable Chang Ren discusses the habitual nature of human thought, the spiritual consequences of a cluttered mind, and practical methods for achieving mental purity through the practice of Namo Amituofo.
The Labyrinth Within: Understanding the Space of Thoughts
Venerable Chang Ren, a practitioner at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre, explores the complex, layered spiritual spaces created by our thoughts, explaining how these mental landscapes are often influenced by karmic forces and how we can regain mastery over our own minds.
The Occupied Body: A Spiritual Reality
Venerable Chang Ren reveals the hidden truth behind the aging process and physical illness, explaining how uncorrected personality flaws create loopholes that allow spirits and karmic creditors to occupy the human body.
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About the Author
Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre
Contributed to Pure Land Buddhism knowledge library