The Serene Smile of the Buddha

Words of Namo Amituofo, recorded by Chief Writer Venerable HaiZe.

The reason why the Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, and the patriarchs and venerable masters possess such dignity and auspicious characteristics is that they have attained the state of awakened being. They have attained infinite Wisdom, virtue, and ability. Their hearts are pure and unstained, dwelling in a state of perfect stillness and meditative concentration. From within this state, a natural sense of gratitude and profound compassion for the suffering of all beings arises.

The Radiance of Compassion

Because they are selfless and dedicated entirely to the welfare of others, their faces are always graced with a compassionate smile. This gentle expression, with lips closed and eyes cast downward, carries the power of reception and merit of the Buddha. When beings who feel lost and without support see the compassionate countenance of the Buddha or Bodhisattva, they naturally feel a sense of peace. Their hearts become stable, and the turbulent waves of their emotions are gradually calmed.

The Temple as a Sanctuary of Healing

One does not necessarily need to light incense to connect with the Buddha. A single bundle of incense offered from the heart, combined with the willingness to join one's palms and pour out the suffering within, is sufficient. After performing prostrations and bowing to the Buddha, one naturally finds that the heart becomes much calmer. This is why so many beings travel great distances to visit the temple to offer fruit, light incense, and pay their respects to the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas. It is a form of natural therapy for the soul.

Furthermore, the pure environment of the temple and the respect and equality with which the masters treat all devotees are also reasons why people love to draw near to the temple.

The Silent Dialogue of the Heart

Sometimes, those who come to pay their respects kneel before the Buddha and pour out their hearts. As they speak, they may burst into loud sobs, crying out the grievances, dissatisfaction, humiliation, and injustices they have endured. In that very moment, is this not also the suffering of the beings within our bodies, being poured out to the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas through the person?

The Buddha sees this situation with absolute clarity. Consequently, Amitabha transmits inclusion and understanding to the person through that serene, downcast smile. At this moment, the person's spirit is soothed and comforted.

The Power of Stillness

This is the power of meditative concentration. Without saying a single word or performing any action, the Buddha allows people to feel that they are accepted and understood. Namo Amituofo has infused this power of stillness into the six-character name of Namo Amituofo, hoping that all people, as well as their karmic creditors, spiritual attachments, and even the demon crowds, can receive it.

In truth, all beings possess the same true self. If one can find their way back to this true self, each one is a Buddha in their own right, capable of bringing the power of peace and stillness to all beings. This is why the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas compassionately manifest this appearance, so that everyone may learn from it.

Namo Amituofo