The Power of Rejoicing in Merit and Virtue

The Radiance of a Pure Heart

Praise that flows genuinely from the depths of the heart is truly precious. When we speak of rejoicing in the merit and virtue of others, we are describing a state of being that reflects the highest qualities of a practitioner: compassion, wisdom, the perspective of oneness, and a heart of absolute equality. This is not merely a social courtesy; it is a profound spiritual practice that aligns our inner state with the Truth.

In the context of Pure Land practice, those who follow the path of the Great Vehicle, the One Vehicle, or those who seek to attain Buddhahood while simultaneously working to save all beings, must focus on diligent practice. When you practise according to the principles of the Dharma, you will naturally receive the blessings of Namo Amituofo. These blessings will cause your spiritual achievements to grow, and your innate abilities will naturally manifest. Sometimes, these are abilities you possessed in past lives, which, through the process of purification, are now able to emerge once more into the present.

The Harmony of the Fourfold Assembly

Among fellow practitioners, the fourfold assembly of disciples, and the monastic community, we often witness the achievements of others. We see their beneficial actions for the sake of all beings and the visible signs of their spiritual progress. When you see or hear of such things, your immediate response should be one of sincere rejoicing and praise. This is not only a manifestation of compassion, wisdom, and the perspective of oneness; it is also a testament to your own noble character and the vastness of your mind-capacity.

However, what happens if you feel a ripple of disturbance in your heart upon witnessing the success of another? If you experience negative feelings, emotions, or internal obstacles, you must be extremely careful. If you find yourself harbouring jealousy, feeling as though a fire is burning within your chest, you must realise that these are signs of deep-seated pollution within your consciousness. Such reactions indicate that you have lost control over your own mind.

The Danger of Hidden Obstacles

These subtle, negative feelings are dangerous because they act as a beacon. They attract karmic creditors from your past lives who have suffered similar situations and now seek to manifest their grievances. Furthermore, they invite attached spirits and demon crowds to enter your body. This will create profound obstacles to your own practice and will severely hinder the elevation of your spiritual quality. You must recognise that these emotions are not merely fleeting thoughts; they are active barriers to your liberation.

Humility as a Gateway to Wisdom

There is an ancient saying: There is always someone better; there is always a higher authority. The universe is vast, and there are countless worlds and dimensions that remain unknown and unperceived by us. If you realise that you still have areas of insufficiency, you must work to strengthen your practice and purify your mind. Do not be afraid to learn from others. You must be humble and modest, acting quickly to soothe or cease any negative impulses when they arise. Open your mind-capacity wide and learn the art of rejoicing in the merit and virtue of others.

Cultivating True Awareness

Before one has achieved stable meditative concentration, before one has successfully transformed their karma, and before one has reached Awakening, it is very easy for one's practice to be influenced by external people, events, and environments. Therefore, you must maintain a vigilant awareness:

• When you see the achievements and good deeds of others, you should rejoice and praise them.
• When you see the mistakes or unwholesome actions of others, you should use them as a warning for yourself.

Do not let yourself fall into the same errors. Do not create negative causes that will inevitably lead to evil consequences and trap you in the cycle of suffering. This level of discernment and awareness is the essential duty of every practitioner. By maintaining this clarity, you ensure that your path remains aligned with the Universal Principle, the Truth, and the Right Way.

Namo Amituofo

Recorded and transcribed by Namo Amituofo’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe