The True Meaning of the Sangha

The Call to Understand the Sangha

On the tenth of October, 2016, at 2:35 AM, the Buddha's disciple, Shi Faxi, recorded a profound transmission. Practitioner Peizhen, feeling the weight of the message, asked, "What is the meaning of the Sangha? How should I begin to write this down?" Suddenly, the message revealed that the source of this teaching was none other than Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju. With a heart full of reverence, Practitioner Peizhen replied, "Yes, Teacher, Namo Amituofo."

Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju then began his compassionate instruction: "My child, begin writing. Namo Amituofo."

Beyond the Shaved Head

The term 'Sangha' refers to those who were once ordinary people but have now attained the fruits of practice, having liberated themselves from the cycle of rebirth. Is the act of shaving one's head merely about removing hair? If the practice were limited only to the physical act of shaving, why would one endure the hardships of leaving the household life? Why would one be worthy of the title 'Sangha' or be called a 'Teacher of celestial beings and humans'?

Consider the example of Dharmakara Bhikshu. He renounced his kingdom and his royal status to become a monk. He cultivated the Bodhisattva path and made the Forty-eight Great Vows with great compassion and profound, heavy vow-power. His life as a monk was not defined by his shaved head or the robes he wore. It was defined by his boundless Compassion, Joy, and Selfless Giving, and his great vow-power to create the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. He sought to welcome all suffering spirits from the Saha world, to save them without fear, and to perform acts of goodness without any attachment to self.

The Pillars of Monastic Practice

Furthermore, the primary requirement for a member of the Sangha is the cultivation of the mind. One must not allow oneself to be stained by the habits of the dusty world. If one has not severed greed, anger, and delusion, and arrogance, then the name 'Sangha' is merely a title, while one's reality may be closer to the hells. In truth, the conduct of a true monk is not difficult to understand. One must ask: what is the state of my heart, and what are my actions?

There is a wonderful saying that serves as a guide for all practitioners:

• Discipline (Precepts): This is the foundation of all practice.
• Pure Land: The Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss is the ultimate destination and return.
• Mind-watching: Observing the mind is the essential key.
• Good Friends: Relying on virtuous companions is the necessary support.

This is a profound teaching, but one must ask oneself: am I truly putting this into practice? We are taught to maintain a pure, equal, and awakened mind, filled with compassion. We are taught to 'see through' and 'let go,' to be at ease and follow conditions. These two principles are sufficient for the conduct of a monk. Why, then, is it that in this current age, the Sangha does not always reflect this? It is because many have not truly put these teachings into action. Without genuine practice, how can one manifest the dignity of the Dharma? How can one save beings from suffering?

A Warning and an Encouragement

Why do some choose this path if they are not prepared? Often, it is because they are entangled in deep illness, burdened by karmic debts, pulled by the needs of others, or controlled by demonic influences. If you have fear, do not walk this path, for I worry that you will create karma that is difficult to repay. However, if you possess the boldness, you must walk the path righteously. Do not deviate, for that will only mislead others.

The Buddha's teachings have been passed down for thousands of years. Do not treat them as mere myths. In this third period of the Dharma, many in the Sangha have changed their appearance and turned toward greed and deviant paths. There is little genuine repentance. Although Professor Dongmei Fang once said that practice is a form of enjoyment, this does not mean that being a monk is merely about seeking pleasure, nor does it mean it is only about suffering. One must find the balance. Do not be consumed by desires.

My children, be cautious and vigilant. Follow the Dharma and walk the Right Way. You must abandon greed, anger, and delusion. Arrogance is the most dangerous of all. Do not cling to fame or profit. You must act with vows. With sincere Faith, Vows, and Practice, you must move forward with strength. If you wish to walk the path of the Sangha, remember these words of warning. Namo Amituofo.

Walking Toward the Light

Practitioner Peizhen replied, "Yes, I am grateful for the Teacher's compassion. Namo Amituofo."

Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju concluded: "Let these words guide your myriad actions. Why would you continue to act as you have? The suffering of all spirits is complex and intertwined. If you can hope for a better future, the world will naturally be at peace. Follow the Truth, follow the Dharma, and be compassionate. My children, you must walk this path with great effort. Do not cling to the sensations of the body. Look forward, for ahead lies the light."

Practitioner Peizhen responded, "I am grateful for the Teacher's great compassion and teachings. Namo Amituofo, the vast and mighty virtue of the Buddha."

Namo Amituofo