The Relativity of More and Less

Teachings from Namo Amituofo, recorded by Venerable HaiZe during the midday offering on March 23, 2024.

The Illusion of Relative Quantity

More and less are concepts of relative quantity. When there is an object of comparison, a difference in quantity inevitably arises. Before one has transformed their karma and realised their true nature, no two individuals are exactly the same. This is because every spirit in the cycle of rebirth has accumulated unique experiences, memories, and perceptions throughout countless lifetimes.

Unless one has realised their true nature and attained Buddhahood, they remain bound by these individual differences. However, once one attains Buddhahood, all Buddhas walk the same path. Even then, their manifestations in the world may appear different, as they adapt their actions according to the specific beings they encounter, as well as the time and place of their appearance.

The Unchanging Nature of the Awakened

At such a level of attainment, the Buddha works tirelessly for the sake of all beings, having completely let go of the self. Their hearts remain perfectly still, without a single ripple of disturbance, yet their physical actions and speech may vary greatly to suit the needs of those they guide. This is why we see such phenomena as:

• Outer movement with an inner stillness:
• The ability to act in the world without being affected by it.Skillful means:
• The ability to adapt to any situation to help others.The absence of fixed methods: The understanding that the Dharma is not rigid but flows according to the needs of the moment.

These qualities are clearly visible in the manifestations of those who have realised their true nature.

The Path to Breaking Through Delusion

Regardless of the situation that an individual may present, Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, and those who have realised their true nature always manifest their original, inherent Buddha-nature. Ordinary beings, however, suffer in the cycle of rebirth because they are trapped in confusion and delusion. Because the awakened ones can perceive the potential of each being, they teach according to the individual's capacity. They target the specific areas where a person is confused, helping them transform their delusion into wisdom and providing them with the precious opportunity to break through their ignorance.

This is the true, practical benefit of drawing close to Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, and true spiritual friends. If you have not yet realised your true nature, you are still an ordinary person bound by karma. If you can recognise this reality and are fortunate enough to encounter the teachings of a Buddha, a Bodhisattva, or a true spiritual friend, you must understand that this is a rare and difficult opportunity.

Returning to the True Self

By listening to the sutras and hearing the Dharma, you can begin to untangle your own confusion. If you are willing to listen and accept guidance, there will come a moment when your mind suddenly opens, and you will see the truth clearly. Therefore, you must not remain attached to what you see and hear through your Six Roots: the eyes, ears, nose, tongue, body, and mind.

If you remain attached to these sensory inputs, you will fall back into the trap of the cycle of rebirth. Instead, you must lift up the Buddha-name at all times. Under the blessings of Namo Amituofo, you can purify your Body, Speech, and Mind, as well as your Six Roots. This practice will help your good roots, blessings, and causal conditions manifest, and it is absolutely essential for finding your way back to your true self.

Namo Amituofo