The Unity of Essence, Appearance, and Function

Teachings from Namo Amituofo, recorded and transcribed by Namo Amituofo’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe.

During the noon offering on September 27, 2024, Namo Amituofo provided the following discourse on the nature of reality.

The Inseparable Triad of Existence

Essence, appearance, and function are not three separate things; they are a single, unified whole. To understand the truth of our existence, we must grasp these three aspects:

• Essence: This refers to the original nature, the fundamental substance of all things.
• Appearance: This refers to the phenomena and forms that we perceive in the world.
• Function: This refers to the active application or utility that arises from these various forms.

If your heart can remain as still as water—yielding, compliant, and silent—then your practice will surely achieve spiritual success. Just as water is essential everywhere, its nature serves as the essence. It can adapt to the needs of all beings, changing into countless forms while its fundamental nature remains unchanged. It is through these forms that water performs its vital functions.

The Flowing Wisdom of the Water-Nature

Consider how water manifests in our world to sustain life. Humidity is formed by water molecules in the air, which is essential for the human body. Here, the moisture is the appearance, the water-nature is the essence, and the act of providing hydration is the function. Similarly, all earthly creatures require rain to survive. The rain is the appearance, the water-nature is the essence, and the nourishment it provides to the earth is the function.

In the same way, your true self possesses infinite wisdom, virtuous capabilities, auspicious characteristics, and various other powers. These are the tools required by Buddhas and Bodhisattvas to teach the world. When teaching and guiding beings, one can flow naturally with the Dharma. Every ability you employ is already present within your true self; there is no need to seek it externally. It is complete and perfect within you, serving as a source of self-benefit.

The Infinite Potential of the True Self

Furthermore, you can make infinite adaptations based on the potential of each being and their level of wisdom, using these methods to teach them for their benefit. This true self is inherently possessed by every single being. Those who have not yet reached Awakening are called ordinary people, and they remain under the control of their karma. However, those who have reached Awakening are no longer dominated by karmic forces.

The true self is the essence, the fundamental nature that every being possesses. This human body and all the appearances it manifests are formed through a combination of multiple Causal Conditions. In the six realms of existence, every being manifests differently, but these are merely temporary, false appearances. Within each of these appearances—within every single being—there exists the same true, original nature.

Awakening to the Truth of Reality

Therefore, even the smallest creatures, whether they are born from eggs, wombs, moisture, or transformation, all possess this essence. This essence is the true self. The work of saving beings from the cycle of rebirth and helping them rediscover their original nature is the ultimate function. Essence, appearance, and function are one, not two. This is the factual truth of the universe.

When you understand this reality, you can awaken from your confusion, find your true nature, and no longer be deceived by false appearances. When you realise that essence, appearance, and function are one, you will be able to see the true nature of others when saving them, without being distracted by their outward appearances or actions. You will maintain a heart of equality, free from discriminations and attachments, and achieve a state where principle and practice are perfectly integrated, allowing you to move through the world without obstruction.

Namo Amituofo