The Void and the Real: Understanding Our True Nature

The Illusion of the Physical Form

We clearly possess a physical body, yet why is it described as an illusory, false form? It is because the body is bound by the constraints of time. The moment our breath stops, this body becomes useless in the human world. It cannot be taken with us, nor can it sustain our existence beyond this fleeting life. Therefore, we must recognise that the body is merely a temporary vessel, not the ultimate reality of who we are.

The Eternal Reality of the True Self

If the body is false and illusory, what then is truly real? What is it that is not empty? The answer is our true self-nature. This true self-nature is the eternal, unchanging essence that resides within every being. It is the source of all Wisdom and the foundation of our existence. While the body will eventually fade, our true self-nature remains constant, untouched by the cycles of birth and death.

The Path of True Cultivation

How do we bridge the gap between the temporary and the eternal? We must engage in True Cultivation. This means using our limited, finite body to manifest the infinite potential of our true self-nature. To practise True Cultivation, one must master the art of "see through" and "let go". This is not a passive act; it requires immense diligent practice, the boldness to face our attachments, and the Wisdom to discern the truth from the false. It is the path of the practitioner who is determined to transcend the mundane.

Waking from the Dream of Existence

Consider the scenes we experience in a dream. While we are within the dream, everything feels incredibly real and vivid. Yet, the moment we awaken, we ask ourselves: where did that dream go? We search for it, but it has vanished without a trace, never to return. Our current life is much like that dream. We must not become attached to these illusory scenes, nor should we sink into them, become stained by them, or enter the dust of worldly desires. We must avoid the pitfalls of bias and selfishness that cloud our perception.

The Call to Awakening

If you find yourself lost in the dream of life, you must wake up immediately. You must purify the places where you have developed attachments, for only through this purification can your mind become clear and luminous. Only then will you be able to directly see your original, true self-nature. This is the goal of our practice: to move from confusion to awakening, and from impurity to purity. May we all strive to realise this truth and return to our original home in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss.

Recorded by the Buddha's disciple, Venerable HaiZe.

Namo Amituofo