The Practice of Contemplation

The Thrice Yearning Ceremony is a sacred time for deep reflection and spiritual renewal. During the third session of this ceremony, Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju offered profound guidance on the practice of contemplation, urging us to look deeply into the nature of our existence.

The Essence of Contemplation

You must learn to observe your heart, observe your body, and observe the entirety of this life. How many of us truly pause to ask why we are here? If you have come into this world merely to create karma and continue the cycle of rebirth, then this life is truly not worth the effort. It is a tragic waste of a precious human existence, for you are simply adding more weight to your karmic burden.

The Puppet of Karmic Debt

If you are here only to repay karmic debts or settle old scores with those who have harmed you in the past, you are like a puppet on a string. A puppet has no control over its own movements; it is manipulated by the invisible forces of its past actions. What value is there in such a life? It is a life of endless struggle, confusion, and suffering, where you are constantly reacting to the demands of your karmic creditors.

The Urgency of Awakening

Perhaps you have come with the intention to see through the illusions of the world and let go of your attachments. However, you must realise that this physical body is limited and time is fleeting. If you fail to continue your search for your true self before your life comes to an end, you will have missed the greatest opportunity of all. To reach the end of your life without having found your original nature is a profound loss.

Finding the True Self

If you choose to go straight to the source and seek your true self, you will no longer wander the winding, painful paths of samsara. By rediscovering your true nature, you open the gates to the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. This allows you to save yourself and, in turn, rescue all suffering beings, bringing them into the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss.

A Life Worth Living

To spread the Pure Land teachings during this Dharma-Ending Age is the most meaningful way to spend your time. This is what makes this life truly worthwhile. It is a great fortune to know how to return from the lost path. Our Compassionate Father, Namo Amituofo, stands upon the lotus pedestal, his hands outstretched, finally waiting for his child to return home. This message was recorded by the Buddha's disciple, Venerable HaiZe.