The Transience of Life and the Path to Liberation
Teachings from Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju
During the Thrice Yearning Ceremony Noon Offering, 7 April 2019
On the 7th of April 2019, during the , Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju shared these profound teachings on the nature of our existence and the path to true liberation.
The Illusion of Worldly Glory
The road to the afterlife is a lonely and sorrowful journey. When the time comes to depart, no one can accompany you on this path. In this world, your home may be bustling with activity. You may travel in grand carriages, wear fine silks, and dine on exquisite foods. Your garden may be filled with blooming flowers, your children may laugh and play, and servants may attend to your every need. Yet, even if these worldly comforts remain, the master of the house has already departed.
The Inevitability of Departure
You have spent your entire life in a flurry of activity, but in your old age, you find yourself without the strength to move. Though your descendants may be filial, they cannot bear your physical pain for you. Eventually, you must bid farewell to this world. All your glory becomes a memory of the past. Your wealth and status are inherited by your descendants, while you must face the reality of death alone. Where will you go? You are bound by the cycle of the six realms of existence.
The Compassionate Call of Namo Amituofo
But take heart, for the of the Buddha is here to guide you. The Buddha-light shines boundlessly, and the Buddha-name of Namo Amituofo resonates everywhere. If you are connected by karmic affinity, you will hear it. You must:
- Chant the great name of Namo Amituofo without delay.
- Let go of all worldly attachments.
- Follow the Buddha-light to the of Ultimate Bliss.
- Leave suffering behind and enter the Land of the Golden Lotus.
This message was recorded by the Buddha's disciple, Venerable HaiZe.
Namo Amituofo
More by Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre
The Final Curtain Call of Chu Ke-liang
A candid reflection from the late Taiwanese entertainer Chu Ke-liang on his life, his career, the karmic weight of his influence, and his ultimate deliverance to the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss.
The Soul's True Equality: A Conversation with Mahatma Gandhi
This is a record of an interview with Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, who sought deliverance at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia. He now resides in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. This account reflects upon his life and his journey to the Pure Land.
A Reflection from the Western Pure Land
This is a record of an interview with Zhao Puchu, who sought deliverance at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia. He now resides in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. This account reflects upon his life in the 20th century. Recorded by the chief writer, Shi Fa Hui, on April 18, 2026.
The Truth Behind My Rebirth: A Message from Liu Suqing
Liu Suqing, the elder sister of the renowned practitioner Liu Suyun, shares her harrowing journey through the spirit realms and her ultimate deliverance to the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss through the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre.
The Burden of a Historical Name
This is a record of an interview with Lin Biao, who sought Chao Du at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia. He now resides in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. This account reflects upon his life approximately 54 years ago. Recorded by the chief writer, Shi Fa, on May 18, 2026.
The Poet’s Journey to the Western Pure Land
A reflection on the life, tragedy, and ultimate spiritual liberation of the ancient statesman Qu Yuan, who found peace through the teachings of Practitioner Su.
About the Author
Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre
Contributed to Pure Land Buddhism knowledge library