This is a record of an interview with Venerable Changren, who shared insights on the practice of at the Hsiang Kuang Buddhist Centre in Australia. This account reflects on the importance of diligent practice and the purification of -nature. Recorded by the chief writer, Shi Faxi, on April 16, 2019.
Venerable Changren speaks:
". In these days of diligent practice, we must realise that time waits for no one. It is a relentless, flowing force that does not pause for our convenience. If, during every single day of our practice here at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre, we can summon a heart of true diligence, if we can apply ourselves fully and sincerely, and if we can truly find our way back to our original self, then we will be able to unleash our full potential. Only then will this life have true meaning.
The Weight of Diligent Practice
Think about it—why do we practise? It is not merely for our own benefit. We carry the heavy responsibility of benefiting all sentient beings. Every person should strive to uncover their own innate self-nature. That is the true expression of a Great Vow and great power. It is difficult to save beings in this world, but if we can increase the number of those who are brave and capable, those who stand together to save the world, then we can provide more help to beings, guiding them toward rebirth in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss.
The True Meaning of Three Thousand Prostrations
Today, everyone’s task is to perform three thousand prostrations. We make this vow to further purify our body and mind, and to adjust our character back to the state of a true practitioner. We must wash away the dust of the world. Those who can truly achieve this purification are the ones who will reap the benefits. The purpose of our practice is to rediscover our true self-nature and to achieve . Today’s task of three thousand prostrations already reveals your vow and your perseverance.
However, if your initial resolve is not yet firm, you must be alert. You must realise that obstacles will inevitably arise in your practice, and problems may appear on your path toward rebirth in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. Should you not, then, carefully adjust your own heart and character? Practice is not just for yourself. If you only think of yourself, these three thousand prostrations will be incredibly difficult to complete. You will find yourself counting the bows, feeling the fatigue, and questioning the purpose, rather than letting the practice transform you.
Beyond the Numbers
In truth, the greatest significance of these three thousand prostrations does not lie in the number itself. It lies in whether your heart of practice is genuine. Are you making a diligent effort to break through your limitations? Every ounce of effort in our practice carries profound significance. If your prostrations today are sincere, I believe the meaning you derive from them will be magnificent and extraordinary. But if you are merely going through the motions, just performing the prostrations for the sake of finishing, the difference in the outcome will be vast.
Your diligence resides within your own heart. No matter what, you must strive with all your might. The purification you undergo today will surely bring about unique rewards. For those who have not yet put in a sincere effort, you should examine yourselves and see if there are areas that need to be changed. Do not let this opportunity slip through your fingers.
I am grateful to the Buddha for His , so magnificent and dignified. I am grateful to Grandma. Namo Amituofo."
