The Profound Equanimity of the Heart

The Void Nature of the Heart

At this moment, your heart may rest in true equanimity. This state arises because the heart is fundamentally empty and void. Where does this heart reside? You may search the entire universe, yet it cannot be found. As it was never a fixed, tangible entity, how could it be located? Only by realising this inherent emptiness can we begin to understand our true nature.

Everything we have experienced in the past—all our memories, attachments, and regrets—has settled within the heart. These past experiences act as heavy burdens, creating obstacles that cloud our clarity. If you can see the truth of these phenomena, you will find that your heart remains naturally equanimous, for you have recognised that the heart is empty and void of any permanent substance.

Releasing the Illusions of the Past

The heart possesses the capacity to change and manifest all things. It is this very ability to transform that leads us to label these manifestations as the heart itself. However, this heart exists primarily to save all beings. When we have something to offer, it is for the sake of all sentient beings, because all beings possess this same heart. Since the heart is originally empty, it can manifest into ten thousand different forms. These forms appear for the benefit of all beings, and we should act according to the needs of the situation without becoming attached to the results.

I counsel all practitioners to learn to let go of everything. Consider the following points regarding the burdens of the past:

• Past events that we cling to only serve to increase our sorrow and emotional pain.
• We must recognise that these past experiences are merely illusory existences, not ultimate truths.
• Do not suffer because of these illusions, and do not become lost by clinging to them as if they were real.

All beings should come to this realisation: suffering and confusion are merely illusions, while the empty, luminous nature of the heart is the true reality. If you can remove these illusory attachments, leaving them without a trace, you will successfully recover the equanimity of your original heart.

Illuminating the Universe with Clarity

Those who have truly seen the truth of reality will be able to face everything with a calm and steady mind. Whether you are dealing with difficult situations or challenging people, you can remain equanimous because you understand that the heart is empty. This clarity allows your wisdom to shine forth, illuminating the entire universe. When you reach this state, there is no event that can cause you worry, and there is no person who can cause you irritation. Your heart is naturally pure, cool, and undisturbed.

Fearless in the Presence of the Buddha

Equanimity brings a state where there is nothing to fear. This is because you have the constant presence of Namo Amituofo with you. Even if you are disturbed by demon crowds or if thousands of illusory demonic realms manifest before your eyes, you can still walk straight ahead with a steady heart, completely free from fear.

When you open up the space where these negative forces reside, even the old demon will be forced to manifest. It is a sight they have never seen before—a practitioner who is not afraid—and this very lack of fear will cause the demon to tremble. Because you have the Buddha with you, you can save all beings with a heart of perfect equanimity. Namo Amituofo.