The True Nature of the Buddha

The Essence of the True Reality

The true nature is what is referred to in the Infinite Life Sutra (The Buddha Speaks the Mahayana, Infinite Life, Adornment, Purity, Impartiality, and Enlightenment Sutra) as the 'True Reality'. The true nature means that if one can follow the teachings, put them into practice, and engage in spiritual cultivation with a grounded and steadfast heart, one will be able to attain the True Reality and rediscover one's original, inherent nature.

The reason the Tathagata appears in this world is solely to proclaim the ocean of Namo Amituofo’s fundamental vows. All Buddhas and Bodhisattvas manifest in this world for one primary purpose: to teach all beings and to demonstrate the great Dharma that allows one to rediscover their true nature.

The Path of Diligent Practice

Among these, engaging in pure and correct practice and chanting the six-character name, 'Namo Amituofo', is the Dharma gate widely proclaimed by all Buddhas and Bodhisattvas. The most magnificent benefit of Buddha-recitation is rebirth in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. This is the ultimate path to liberation from the cycle of rebirth and the way to become a Buddha.

Cultivating the Four Immeasurable Minds

Compassion, Wisdom, Joy, and Letting Go—possessing these Four Immeasurable Minds is the true benefit that a practitioner can attain. One can attain the fruit of entering the Celestial Realm. If one simultaneously practises the Pure Land Dharma Gate, one also has the opportunity to be reborn in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. As the sutra states, 'One cannot be reborn in that land with only a small amount of good roots, blessings, and Causal Conditions'. These Four Immeasurable Minds are the manifestation of good roots and Blessings, serving as a guide for practitioners to evaluate whether their practice is advancing.

A Rare Opportunity for Awakening

The true nature is inherently possessed by everyone; practitioners must make a sincere vow to rediscover this original nature. During the process of practice, if you encounter tests or hardships, do not retreat; these are the critical moments that determine whether your practice advances or regresses.

Furthermore, practising at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Goombungee, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia, under the guidance of Namo Amituofo, Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju, and Practitioner Su, you have the benefit of the location and the harmony of the community; this is a magnificent and rare opportunity to rediscover your true nature. The fourfold assembly of disciples should cherish and seize this opportunity, remaining diligent in your practice.

Namo Amituofo