The Pure Meditation of the True Self

Venerable Chang Ren, a monastic who sought deliverance through the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre, now resides in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. This interview was recorded on September 15, 2018, by the chief writer, Shi Fa.

Venerable Chang Ren speaks:

"Namo Amituofo. From what I have observed in this world, the endless disputes and conflicts between people are impossible to fully recount. Yet, within our true self-nature, what we must achieve is a level of Meditation (Concentration) that remains unshakable, regardless of whether circumstances are right or wrong. This is the true, purifying Meditation (Concentration) of the Pure Land.

The Illusion of Right and Wrong

In this world, I have witnessed countless individuals from diverse backgrounds, each with their own unique voices and behaviours. Many people are engaged in actions they believe to be correct, while others pursue what they perceive to be good. But when we examine these actions, how many are truly right? And furthermore, how many are truly wrong? In moments filled with such complexity and contradiction, can your heart still remain as clear and still as water? Once you become entangled in these affairs, even what you claim to be 'right' ceases to be the truth.

I have been here for some time now, and I have seen so many different problems and processes. Practice is never an easy path. In truth, it could be very simple, but the moment the 'self' enters the equation, everything becomes complicated and incredibly difficult. Because when the 'self' is present, too many issues remain muddled and unclear. We fail to see that our own character and our very thoughts may still be tainted by lingering errors. People often fail to understand that thoughts are equivalent to actions. They assume that thoughts exist only in the realm of the illusory, but in reality, our actions in this world are also like illusions. How, then, can one claim that thoughts do not exist?

The Weight of Karmic Retribution

Much of my own awakening has come from seeing things clearly. I have realised that people in this world are bound by so many laws of karma and cause and effect. Our thoughts, and even the words we speak, can lead to grave errors. When people are unaware of these truths, the mistakes they commit become outrageous. I see everyone still trapped within the cycle of reincarnation. If you wish to escape this, your heart must first learn to practise purity. A single incorrect thought—or even the manifestation of a shift in behaviour—is already a serious karmic offence.

I hope to remind everyone of this because I want you to wake up. You must understand that this world truly cannot be allowed to contaminate your spirit. All worldly matters must be transformed; you must learn to transform yourself into a true practitioner. Only then will your time here not be in vain.

A Unified Path of Devotion

Practitioner Su's tireless labour is always watching over all of you. Everyone should see the reality of this place. Here, we must all work together with our full hearts and strength. The unity of a family requires labour and resources; these are things that must be contributed. We are all one family, working together to serve the Buddha’s teachings. I am also here, striving to help everyone, hoping that this Dharma work can proceed smoothly. I believe that you all feel the Buddha-light as it constantly illuminates and purifies us. I am grateful for the compassion of the Buddha. Namo Amituofo."