The Truth Invisible to the Worldly Heart

Venerable Chang Ren is a dedicated monastic who sought deliverance through the compassionate guidance offered at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre. Currently residing at the centre, the Venerable devotes their life to the study and dissemination of the Dharma, helping others navigate the complexities of the secular world. This interview was recorded on April 30, 2019, providing a rare glimpse into the Venerable's perspective on the nature of reality and the essential requirements for successful spiritual cultivation.

Venerable Chang Ren speaks:

"Namo Amituofo. The truth is a profound reality that remains largely unseen by the vast majority of people in this world. For the most part, worldly individuals are constantly disturbed, swayed, and influenced by the myriad illusions that permeate the secular realm. These illusions act as a thick veil, clouding their hearts and blinding their eyes to the actual state of existence. Consequently, many people in this world are unable to perceive the truth with any degree of accuracy. Even when the absolute Truth is presented directly before them, they may still choose to follow the wrong path, stubbornly unwilling to believe in the reality of the truth. This is the heavy obstacle of ignorance—it makes one extremely difficult to teach or guide. Over time, this persistent ignorance severely damages one's own precious opportunity to practise the Buddha Dharma and to realise one's true nature."

Beyond the Surface of Worldly Perception

"The perspective gained through genuine spiritual practice should never be limited to the common, superficial views held by society. A true practitioner must possess the deep cultivation and refined character of one who has dedicated their life to the Dharma. One must be able to observe the dust and turmoil of the world from the perspective of one who has transcended it. We must not merely see the surface of events or the fleeting manifestations of illusions; we must be able to discern the true reality underlying every situation. In particular, one must be able to understand the Causal Conditions behind every occurrence. This is absolutely crucial because it is very difficult for us to be certain that what we see is indeed the truth. It is entirely possible that our own temperament and emotional biases influence our perception, leading us to look in the wrong direction. It is also possible that our karmic creditors are creating obstacles, interfering with our vision and causing us to misinterpret reality. When this happens, errors arise from nothing, leading to unnecessary complications and suffering. A life that was originally peaceful can be suddenly disrupted by these unexpected changes. Such interference is truly a loss that outweighs any potential gain. Everyone should be cautious and mindful of these issues. Practice should be a state of profound tranquillity; only then can one truly engage in proper practice."

The Path to Purity and Self-Realisation

"What we refer to as 'pure practice' means that one must be able to exist without the generation of internal or external chaos. Within a state of purity and ease, one will naturally and gradually be able to see one's true nature. This requires constant, diligent practice and the ongoing purification of one's own cultivation. Only through such rigorous effort can one purify the heart and recover the true self. The most important thing is to never allow your heart to be shaken by the winds of the world. Neither external environments nor internal states should be permitted to disturb your heart. Only through maintaining this state of purity and ease can one achieve good practice."

The Art of Non-Attachment

"The things we see in the secular world are often the result of worldly emotions acting upon us. If one can face all situations with a heart that is 'without affairs'—a heart of non-attachment—then naturally, no complications will arise. If you choose to view things with a heart that is 'full of affairs' or if you become emotionally reactive, then complications will certainly follow. In reality, things could be 'without affairs'; it all depends entirely on how you perceive and handle them. By letting go of emotional reactions, you prevent the seeds of future trouble from taking root."

Achieving Success in Practice

"There are far too many distractions in this world. Only by reaching a state where one is 'without sensation and without reception' can one truly practise well. Otherwise, if the emotional fluctuations are too strong or too numerous, they will obstruct and affect your heart of practice. In your practice, you must be most vigilant about whether your heart is being shaken, as this will impact many levels of your being. Your meditative concentration must be sufficient to withstand the pressures of the world. You must practise well, find your true self, and only then can your practice achieve success and be fully realised."

A Sanctuary of Compassion

"Practising at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre is truly magnificent. I hope that everyone can find their true selves through this path. The Buddha is full of compassion, and the guidance we receive here is a blessing. I am deeply grateful to the Grandmother for her unwavering support. Namo Amituofo."

Venerable Chang Ren

This interview was recorded by the disciple of the Buddha, Shi Fa Xi.