The Priceless True Heart

Teachings from Namo Amituofo, recorded and transcribed by Namo Amituofo’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe.

On the twentieth of September, 2025, during the midday offering, Namo Amituofo provided the following discourse on the nature of the True Heart.

The Purity of the True Heart

The True Heart is inherently untainted and pure. Like a mirror that cannot be stained by dust, it remains naturally bright and clear. In this state of absolute purity, no external influence can leave a mark; it is a state of being completely free from the shadows of the world.

The True Heart is real, not false. It stands the test of time, people, events, and environments. Even when faced with challenging circumstances, the truth remains the truth, devoid of any trace of hypocrisy or deceit. It is the foundation upon which all genuine spiritual progress is built.

The Trap of the False Mind

The True Heart is not the deluded mind. Operating from a deluded mind leads to the traps of delusion, discrimination, and attachment, where one perceives differences and judges high or low, becoming entangled in suffering. To transcend suffering, one must let go of these impurities. When the layers of delusion are removed, the True Heart naturally reveals itself, free from discrimination and attachment, manifesting as a state of pure happiness.

The Roots of Affliction

The True Heart is free from the ego. When there is a sense of self, impurity arises. All forms of pollution stem from this attachment to the self. Obstacles such as Greed, Anger, Ignorance, Arrogance, and Doubt, along with the five desires of wealth, lust, fame, food, and sleep, obscure your true nature. These are not the truth. The True Heart is free from delusion and selfishness. Selfishness is merely an attempt to protect the ego, a fragile shield that cannot withstand the weight of karma. Karma is stored within your delusion, discrimination, and attachment—afflictions that cause you to harm yourself and endure suffering. You must discard these delusions to let your True Heart shine.

The Path of Diligent Practice

The True Heart is priceless. It cannot be bought with wealth or jewels, for it is inherent within your self-nature. To uncover it, you must engage in diligent practice, moving forward step by step with an active and persistent spirit. By chanting Namo Amituofo with continuous chanting without interruption, you purify the body, heart, and spirit. As you purify yourself, the True Heart emerges. Because the True Heart is in sync with your self-nature, your self-nature is also revealed.

The Priceless Human Vessel

The True Heart and your self-nature are both priceless. Yet, it is only through this human body that you can find the True Heart and reclaim your self-nature; therefore, this human body is also priceless. Cherish this opportunity to practise, for it is the vessel through which you return to the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss.

Namo Amituofo