The Preciousness of Human Life and the Dharma
The Twenty-Second Letter of Venerable Master Sheng Yen
Recorded on July 7, 2017
This is the twenty-second letter from Venerable Master Sheng Yen, who now resides in the of Ultimate Bliss. In this profound message, the Master reflects on the immense rarity of obtaining a human body and the critical importance of encountering the Buddha’s teachings. This testimony was recorded by the chief writer, Shi Faxi, on July 7, 2017, at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre.
Venerable Master Sheng Yen speaks:
"Namo Amituofo. I am Sheng Yen. You must follow the teachings and the principles, uphold the and its core tenets, and strictly adhere to the you have learned. Always walk the path of the true Dharma with sincerity. If you find that your daily actions do not align with these sacred principles, you must have the courage to change your ways immediately.
The Path of True Practice
The Buddha’s teachings are vast, magnificent, and auspicious. There are many signs of grace that appear to those who seek, yet many remain lost, wandering in confusion. The true meaning of these teachings is often ignored by those who are distracted by the mundane world. How does one pass through a lifetime? It is a difficult and arduous journey. Everyone has heard the saying: 'The human body is hard to obtain, and the Buddha’s teachings are hard to encounter.' The meaning is clear and visible; it requires no further explanation. Everyone understands the words, but how many can truly put them into practice? It seems that talking about the path is always easier than walking it.
The Rarity of Human Existence
You must realise that being born with a human body and having the rare opportunity to practise the Buddha’s teachings is truly magnificent and not a simple matter. You must cherish this existence and seize the opportunity while you still have the breath to do so. Once a lifetime passes, it is very difficult to return; there is no chance to turn back. You can only move forward. If you do not, it is unlikely you will see the light again. This signifies that the darkness of karmic reincarnation will play out once more. You must be deeply careful of this terrifying outcome, for it is a cycle that traps the soul in endless suffering.
The Danger of Samsara and the Purified Heart
Only by changing can you possibly avoid this fate. What must you change? It is your complex, attachment-filled heart. Change it back to a pure, innocent, and empty heart—a purified heart that reflects the clarity of the Dharma. You must clearly understand these principles. The decline of the Buddha’s teachings and the decline of your own spiritual progress depend entirely on the present moment. How do you wish to proceed right now? Do not cling to your attachments, for they are but shadows. You should be single-minded and focus on the ultimate practice of the Buddha’s teachings.
A Call to Return to the Western Pure Land
Do not forget these words spoken at this moment. I hope all beings will return their hearts to the truth, beat the Dharma drum together, and I look forward to seeing you in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. Namo Amituofo."
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About the Author
Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre
Contributed to Pure Land Buddhism knowledge library