The Rising Stars of the Dharma: Teachings from Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju

These teachings were recorded and transcribed by Namo Amituofo’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe, during the midday offering on the second of November, 2024. Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju offers this guidance on the importance of the rising generation in our spiritual community.

The Blossoming of Future Dharma Guardians

The term "rising stars" refers to the exceptional talents emerging among the younger generation. The transmission of the Buddha’s teachings requires the collective effort of all practitioners. This is especially true for the monastics, who serve as one of the Three Jewels—the Buddha, the Teachings, and the Sangha Community. As the primary figures responsible for carrying forward the Buddha’s teachings in the human world, these rising stars are the ones who will shoulder the responsibility of preserving and spreading the Dharma both now and in the future.

The Magnanimous Heart of the Elder

As one grows in experience, whether as a senior practitioner or a teacher, it is essential to cultivate a generous and open heart. One must have the magnanimity to accept and support these rising stars. There is a saying that the blue dye is extracted from the indigo plant but is bluer than the plant itself. This means that a student can and should surpass their teacher. When we see the younger generation excel, we should rejoice in their progress rather than feel threatened by it.

The Karmic Roots of Our Innate Talents

Each rising star possesses unique strengths and specialities. Every one of these talents should be respected, for they are the results of their own diligent efforts. We must understand this through the lens of the laws of karma and cause and effect. These abilities are not accidental; they are the manifestation of good capabilities cultivated through hard work in past lives or in this present life. When the environment is conducive to Goodness, these positive capabilities are naturally drawn out and flourish.

The Vigilance Against the Shadows of the Mind

However, we must be vigilant. If what manifests is a negative thought or a harmful capability—that is, a thought or action that causes pain to oneself or others—it indicates that these evil thoughts have become stronger than the positive guidance provided by a good environment. When you realise that a thought or action is improper, you must act immediately. At the very moment these negative tendencies first appear, you should cut them off or stop them before they take root. If you allow these negative thoughts or behaviours to persist, they will cause great damage to your good intentions, your virtuous actions, and your path of pure practice.

The Radiance of Pure Practice

This is why it is so important to change your ways by addressing issues while they are still small. Do not wait until they become heavy or deeply ingrained. If you allow them to grow, it becomes much more difficult to remove or hide them later. In summary, the rising stars must strive to strengthen their good intentions and capabilities, transforming them into pure thoughts and pure power. By doing so, they can dedicate their lives to saving others and helping them find liberation. This is the light of the Fragrant Light Centre, following the Buddha’s path to save the world and benefit all suffering beings. Namo Amituofo.