The True Reality of All Dharmas

Awakening to the True Reality

In the vast expanse of the teachings, the term 'all phenomena' refers to every law, every object, and every event that exists within the universe. When we speak of 'True Reality,' we are referring to the authentic, unchanging nature that underlies these phenomena. Therefore, the 'True Reality of all Dharmas' is the profound understanding of the genuine nature of everything that exists.

For one to truly witness and realise this True Reality, one must ensure that their life and practice are aligned with the Universal Principle, the Truth, and the Right Way. Only by operating within this framework can one avoid the traps of confusion and successfully rediscover their original, true self. If one fails to understand this reality and remains lost within the illusions of the world, they will only sink deeper into confusion, drifting further away from the truth. This True Reality is, in essence, our original nature—the true self that has always been present.

The Illusion of Attachment

In the absolute sense, there is no 'Dharma' to be found, for our true self is inherently empty and formless. However, because sentient beings cling to the notion of existence and harbour deep-seated attachments, they perceive a world of solid forms. It is from this attachment to 'being' that countless problems and various forms of suffering arise.

The 84,000 Dharma gates were established precisely to counteract these sufferings. They serve as a compassionate medicine to address the questions and pains of sentient beings, ultimately aiming to help them leave suffering behind. Because the number of beings is infinite and the manifestations of their suffering are immeasurable, the methods provided by the Dharma are equally vast and boundless.

Returning to the Truth

If we wish to resolve the fundamental problems of sentient beings, we must help them recognise that they are currently living within an illusion. The problems that arise within this illusion are themselves illusory, and the methods used to solve them are also, in a sense, part of that same illusion. Yet, even though these methods are illusory, they possess the profound ability to address the difficulties of beings and guide them back to the truth from within the dream of existence.

The True Reality of all Dharmas, as taught within the Pure Land Dharma Gate, is perfectly encapsulated within the Holy Name of Namo Amituofo. When you chant the Holy Name with a focused heart, you enter a state of one-mindedness. As you continue to chant until you reach the ultimate depth of this practice, you will naturally witness the True Reality of all Dharmas. You will see your true self, where emptiness and existence are one and the same. In that moment, you will realise the path of self-liberation and the liberation of others, following the Buddha to save all boundless suffering sentient beings.

Recorded and transcribed by Namo Amituofo’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe.

Namo Amituofo