The Void Has an End, My Vows Are Infinite
The Thirty-Third Letter from the Spirit of Venerable Master Sheng Yen
Recorded on July 18, 2017
This is a record of a message from the spirit of the late Venerable Master Sheng Yen, who now resides in the . He reflects upon his life's work, the nature of the spiritual realm, and his ongoing commitment to the propagation of the Buddha's teachings. This testimony was recorded by the chief writer, Shi Faxi, on July 18, 2017.
Venerable Master Sheng Yen speaks:
"Namo Amituofo. I am Sheng Yen. 'The void has an end, my vows are infinite.' This phrase carries a depth of meaning that is truly profound. During my time in the human world, I often used these words to inspire myself, to set a standard for my own practice. Yet, looking back now, I realise how little I truly achieved. There was so much left undone, so much that could have been better, so much that remained imperfect. This realm of emptiness is not a mere construct of the imagination; it is a reality that exists alongside us, accompanying us in every moment.
As a monastic, my duty was always to deliver sentient beings. I ask you now: the monastics of this present age, and the lay practitioners who have awakened their hearts to the Dharma—do you hear them? The beings within this vast void are weeping, calling out for salvation. Can you hear their cries?"
The Reality of the Spiritual Realm
"We fail to hear them, we fail to see them, and most people cannot even feel their presence. This void, this so-called spiritual realm, exists in the same space and at the same time as our physical reality. They live on in the form of spirits, just as I, Sheng Yen, have not truly 'died.' I have simply transitioned into a different mode of existence. The only difference between us is the dimension of space. I can see you, but you cannot necessarily see me. Therefore, I ask you to trust these words, which have been written by breaking through the barriers of space.
In the books I published through Dharma Drum Mountain, I left behind a great deal of knowledge. However, I believe these letters are superior to anything I wrote before. Why? Because these words flow directly from the true self, from the original nature. They are truths that can stir the human heart and draw closer to the ultimate reality. My previous books were the fruits of my diligent study—they were, in essence, combinations of knowledge and text. The spirit and the energy behind them are fundamentally different. What I am sharing now is of vital importance. While it may not be entirely exhaustive or complete, please believe that it is enough to guide you toward a significant transformation."
A Lasting Connection to Dharma Drum Mountain
"My affection for Dharma Drum Mountain has never wavered. The early days of its founding remain vivid in my mind, as if they were yesterday. I poured so much of my heart and soul into that place, and I have not let go of those efforts; I remember them all clearly. Today, I feel a sense of peace, knowing that Dharma Drum Mountain remains a bright lamp in this world, capable of leading others. Although there are those who do not yet believe, I firmly trust in the vastness of the Buddha's power and virtue.
Ultimately, the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre is truly capable of becoming a new star in the Buddhist world, for this place is the Western Pure Land. I am here, and I will always be here, because I wish to contribute my strength to the propagation of the Buddha's teachings. In the entire universe, this is the only temple that truly benefits both the living and the deceased. If your are great enough, you will surely be able to believe in such a magnificent Dharma and recognise its inconceivable nature."
A Call to Protect the Dharma
"I hope that everyone will protect this temple, just as you all supported Sheng Yen in the past. I am deeply grateful for that support. This place represents the true Buddha's teachings, true practice, and true spiritual skills. You must propagate this. I will always be here, and I am waiting for Venerable Guodong to come here and see me. This precious land is not a wasteland; after the groundbreaking ceremony in the near future, it will become a magnificent, world-renowned Buddhist temple. Everyone should have faith in the Buddha's teachings. This place is of an inconceivable, magnificent nature. Namo Amituofo."
Signed by Sheng Yen.
Recorded by the Buddhist disciple Shi Faxi.
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About the Author
Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre
Contributed to Pure Land Buddhism knowledge library