Within the six realms of existence, the sensitivity of one's Body-Mind-Spirit varies greatly from person to person. In the human world, we are often clouded by our physical desires and karmic habits, yet we possess the unique capacity to refine our awareness. When we look toward the heavenly realms, we find that spirits without a body possess a different quality of existence. As these spirits ascend through the various levels of the heavens, the purity and sensitivity of their heart increase in direct proportion to the height of the realm they inhabit.
The Hierarchy of Heavenly Realms
The twenty-eight levels of heaven represent the highest reaches of the heavenly realms. These levels are also the highest points that beings trapped within the cycle of reincarnation can attain. However, even at these lofty heights, one is still subject to the laws of and the cycle of rebirth. To truly transcend this cycle, one must break through the limitations of these twenty-eight heavens and enter the Four Sacred Realms. Once a being enters these realms, they are no longer controlled by the cycle of reincarnation.
As a spirit without a body ascends through the realms of Arhats, Pratyekabuddhas, Bodhisattvas, and Buddhas, the purity and sensitivity of their heart continue to elevate, reflecting their deeper understanding of the .
The Nature of the Buddha Realm
It is important to understand that even the Buddha Realm, while being the highest of the Four Sacred Realms, does not equate to the final state of seeing one's true nature. One may practise the teachings so diligently that they appear to be a Buddha, yet they have not yet reached the ultimate state of . The world of the Buddha Realm is a realm of pure light, which is a manifestation of the spirit's profound purity and heightened sensitivity. It is a magnificent state, yet it remains a stage on the long journey toward the ultimate truth.
The Multi-layered Nature of Space
When we examine the nature of reality in minute detail, we find that whether we are speaking of the twenty-eight heavens or the Four Sacred Realms, each level is composed of various dimensions of space. These spaces exist in a complex, overlapping structure, yet they do not interfere with one another. As a celestial being or a sage increases their purification, sensitivity, and meditative concentration, they gain the natural ability to transcend these spatial layers. This is an inherent capability of the spirit; it does not require any external force or artificial aid.
The Preciousness of Human Life
This natural ability can be cultivated while one is still in the human world, possessing a physical body. In fact, it is through the challenges of the human experience that one can most effectively practise, purify the spirit, and eventually rediscover their true self. When a practitioner achieves this, their state of mind and spiritual sensitivity actually surpass those of the Buddha Realm within the Four Sacred Realms. This is why the human body is so incredibly precious.
In the human world, you have the unique opportunity to face and overcome various trials, which serves as the catalyst for seeing your true nature. Amidst the infinite number of spaces and worlds, it is only here, in the human realm, that you have the chance to achieve Awakening within the limited time that your physical body exists. This is the true value of human life.
A Call to Diligent Practice
At this very moment, you, the students of Hsiang Kuang Buddhist Centre, have the rare fortune of possessing a human body. Furthermore, you have the constant guidance of Namo Amituofo, Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju, and Practitioner Su, who has realised their true nature. You have been given the golden opportunity to achieve Awakening. Therefore, you must be diligent in your practice and seize this precious moment with all your heart.
