The Teacher's Admonitions: A Path to Awakening

Recorded by the Buddha's disciple, Venerable HaiZe, on the twenty-ninth of October, 2021, during the Thrice Yearning Ceremony and Noon Offering, Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju offered these essential admonitions for all practitioners.

The Anchor of Our Hearts

In the past, we may have felt lonely and helpless, but now our hearts rely upon the Buddha of the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. Namo Amituofo is right before you; you must follow closely. If you let go, you risk falling into the deep abyss. Let your heart be directed toward the Buddha in every moment; let every thought be a recitation of the Buddha-name. Whether walking, standing, sitting, or lying down, never let the Buddha leave your mind. This is the duty of a true disciple of the Buddha.

The Discipline of Daily Devotion

Awakened being is not achieved in a single day; you must take your morning service seriously every day. Do not be distracted during prostrations. Let every Buddha-name in your heart be clear and distinct. When you perform prostrations with a sincere heart, free from delusions, you will find that you are neither drowsy nor scattered. The Buddha’s light will shine upon you, resolving all grievances. When you are truly willing to leave this world, the Buddha will reach out to welcome you. Through prostrations, you can resolve your spiritual obstacles and find relief from physical pain and suffering.

Purification Through the Buddha's Light

As you chant the Buddha-name, walk around the Buddha, and engage in visualization, you must do so with a sincere heart. This pure, focused visualization allows the light of the Buddha to shine through you. Through this practice, you can perform Chao Du for those connected by karmic affinity, with the Buddha's blessing, helping them enter the light. When you recite the Sutras, keep your heart settled in the present moment. Let every word be a precious jewel passing before your eyes. When the teachings enter your heart and ears, the results are inconceivable. By receiving these teachings with faith and putting them into practice, you will gain immense benefits.

The Noble Path of the Fragrant Light Disciple

When Precepts (Discipline), Concentration and Wisdom manifest, your heart will remain unmoved. You will rediscover your true self and open up a vast space of clarity. Once your skills are perfected, you will be able to resolve all forms of suffering. You will then be able to save yourself and save others, advancing steadily along the Buddha's path. By saving your family members, you repay the Buddha's kindness. This is the true conduct of a disciple of the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre. Namo Amituofo.