The Steadfast Vow of the Bodhisattva

Teacher’s Teachings, recorded and transcribed by Namo Amituofo’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe

March 27, 2026

The Unwavering Vow of the Bodhisattva

The heart, the vows, and the actions of all Buddha or Bodhisattva in their mission to save beings are steadfast and eternal; they never retreat. Within the vast, selfless, and no-self state of the Great Vehicle, a Bodhisattva clearly perceives the myriad forms of suffering that beings endure. Because of this profound empathy, they engage in diligent practice to perfect themselves, and subsequently, they dedicate their entire existence to the compassionate work of saving countless suffering beings. This heart, this vow, and this action are never subject to retreat.

Navigating the Defiled World

In this defiled and evil world of suffering, the path is fraught with obstacles. Only the Buddha and the Bhikshu can truly subdue demonic enemies and attain the subtle, profound Dharma. Only the Buddha possesses the supreme capacity to confront and transcend the infinite difficulties of this world to save countless suffering beings. It is a path that requires immense courage and clarity of purpose.

The Nature of Demonic Interference

Demon crowds are often filled with fear when they witness a practitioner making genuine progress toward the Buddha's path. Because they fear the practitioner will eventually attain Buddhahood, they frequently launch attacks and create interference before the practitioner has fully succeeded. Consequently, many practitioners, before they have achieved their goal, encounter severe physical hardships and trials. These challenges often cause them to lose heart, retreat, and abandon their precious opportunity to realise one's true nature and attain Buddhahood. They fall back into the cycle of the six realms of rebirth, which is a truly tragic outcome.

True Cultivation in an Illusory World

A true practitioner of the Great Vehicle, whose vow is firm and unshakeable, understands the vital importance of True Cultivation within this illusory world. They are not easily misled by illusory environments, nor do they allow themselves to be entangled by the various sufferings of life, which would otherwise lead to feelings of retreat or a desire to escape. They understand clearly that retreating or avoiding these challenges only serves to make the problems appear more profound and heavy. Therefore, a true practitioner of the Great Vehicle does not shrink away or flee. They are capable of facing the various changes in external environments, the internal disturbances of demonic interference, and the trials presented by the manifestation of their own karmic creditors.

The Power of the Buddha-Name

If a practitioner can maintain their focus and chant one Buddha's name to the end, they will be protected by the Buddha's blessings. Through this, they will be able to pass through one test after another, gaining the opportunity to break through every barrier and continue moving forward on the path to enlightenment. Namo Amituofo.