The Truth of Birth and Death

Teachings from Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju, recorded and transcribed by Namo Amituofo’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe.

August 16, 2025.

The Cycle of Causal Conditions

Everything in this world is governed by the laws of karma and cause and effect. We must understand that all phenomena are subject to the cycle of birth and death, which is entirely dependent upon Causal Conditions. When the conditions gather, things come into existence; when the conditions disperse, they cease to be. This is the fundamental nature of the world we inhabit.

Within this constant gathering and scattering, we are all engaged in the complex work of settling our past debts. We are either repaying kindness or settling grievances with our karmic creditors. This ongoing process of interaction is what forms the myriad phenomena of our world. Whether in this realm or in others, all beings are bound by these same laws of birth and death.

The Illusion of the Material World

Because all things are subject to these changing conditions, nothing we see, hear, or experience is permanent. The people, events, and environments we encounter are not eternal; they are like floating clouds or a passing dream. They are illusory, not true. When you can clearly recognise this fact, you will no longer be deceived by the transient nature of the world.

Those who truly understand this truth can finally see through and let go of their attachments to the past. By releasing these burdens, you will achieve a profound sense of Body-Mind-Spirit liberation. Once you have let go, you can dedicate yourself to diligent practice with a clear and unburdened heart. This is how you elevate your spirit and begin the journey to rediscover your true self—that which is unborn, undying, and eternally present.

The Freedom of the Awakened Being

Those who have realised their true nature are no longer controlled by the forces of impermanence or the weight of their own karma. They are no longer subject to the influence of karmic creditors, attached spirits, or demon crowds. Because they have awakened, they possess the freedom to live and die as they choose.

For those who practise the Pure Land path with fierce diligence, the Buddha's blessings provide the strength to see their true nature. An awakened being who has attained this level of freedom can travel to and from the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss at will. This is the magnificent fruit of one's practice, and it allows one to actively save beings who are still lost in the cycle of suffering. It is a great fortune for any being to encounter the Buddha's teachings.

A Sanctuary of Infinite Compassion

Through the support and Buddha's blessings, you can distance yourself from the suffering of birth, aging, sickness, and death. With the help of Namo Amituofo, you can fulfil your vow to be rebirth in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, thereby ending the cycle of suffering and attaining Buddhahood.

The Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Goombungee, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia is a place where Namo Amituofo is residing here. Within this sacred environment, supported by the Buddha's light, practitioners can attain the magnificent fruit of Pure Land practice. This is a rare and precious time for all beings in the human world to secure their rebirth in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. It is truly a great blessing for all beings to have such a sanctuary for their spiritual growth.

Namo Amituofo