To listen and obey is a profound practice. It is not merely the act of hearing what another person says; it is the ability to take those words into one's heart and manifest them through one's actions. When we truly listen, we align our conduct with the guidance we receive, ensuring that our practice is not just a surface-level activity but a transformative experience.
The Purity of a Childlike Heart
Consider the nature of a young child. A child often lacks their own stubborn opinions and is naturally inclined to listen to the guidance of their elders. Because of this openness, the period of early childhood is the most fertile stage for learning and education. It is during these formative years that the foundations of a noble character and virtuous conduct are most easily cultivated. As practitioners, we must strive to return to this state of receptivity, where our ego does not stand in the way of the Truth.
Transforming at Hsiang Kuang Buddhist Centre
At the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre, the path to achievement is clear. The more one is able to listen and obey, the more one is able to let go of the self, and the more one is truly willing to repent for past mistakes and change one's personality traits, the greater the opportunity for success. This is because this temple is a sacred Buddha-land. The teachings provided by , the guidance from the Teacher, and the instructions from Practitioner Su are all strictly aligned with the Universal Principle, the Truth, and the Right Way. If you can listen, obey, and correct your faults without deviation, you will find the opportunity to experience profound purification and transformation of your Body-Mind-Spirit.
The Path of Letting Go
In the Buddha’s gate, when you encounter the teachings of Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, ancestral masters, or true spiritual friends, you must cherish the opportunity to listen to the sutras and hear the . Listening and accepting instruction is an essential requirement of the path. It is, in essence, the process of letting go of the self—which includes letting go of our physical attachments, our ego-attachment, and our subjective views. The personality traits and habits we have developed in this world must be purified through diligent practice. Only after washing away these layers of dust can our original nature and true self have the opportunity to be revealed.
The Shadows of Doubt and Attachment
To "see through" and "let go" is the hallmark of one who truly knows how to listen. Those who cannot see through their attachments, who cannot let go of their burdens, or who harbour doubt in their hearts, may hear the teachings, but they fail to put them into practice. Consequently, they cannot reap the benefits of the Dharma. This is especially critical for those who have made a vow to see their true nature. If you are still hindered by people or matters that you cannot let go of, you will be unable to achieve true purification, and it will be even more difficult to succeed in your practice and see your true nature.
The Discipline of a Devoted Heart
Those who truly listen and obey are capable of self-discipline, self-regulation, and self-requirement. This capacity for internal order is the fundamental condition for the growth of one's virtue and the success of one's diligent practice. By maintaining this standard, you ensure that your journey toward the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss remains steady and true. Recorded and transcribed by Namo Amituofo’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe.
