The Wandering Spirit Finds Peace: Teachings from Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju

Recorded and transcribed by Namo Amituofo’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe.

During the second session of the Thrice Yearning Ceremony held on the tenth of May, 2024, Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju offered these compassionate teachings to guide those spirits who are currently lost in the vastness of the universe.

The Sorrow of the Wandering Spirit

A spirit that drifts without a home is like a cloud caught in a restless wind. It wanders aimlessly from the east to the west, having no place to anchor its existence. In this state of isolation, the spirit experiences a profound and heavy sorrow, for it is truly alone and without support. How many spirits are currently trapped in this cycle of aimless wandering, unable to find their way back to the light?

The Illusion of Past Glory

Many of these spirits were once figures of great influence in their past lives. They may have been powerful, commanding respect and standing tall against all rivals in their respective domains. Yet, we must ask: where is that glory now? Where has that strength gone? It has vanished like the morning mist. To hold onto the memories of past power is to anchor oneself in suffering. No one remembers the deeds of the past, and that former glory has completely faded away. To cling to these memories only deepens the spirit's grief.

The Transformative Power of the Buddha-Name

Suddenly, the sacred name of Namo Amituofo resonates through the air. As the sound of the Buddha-name fills the space, the spirit feels an unexpected and profound sense of peace. It has been so long since the spirit felt such tranquility. The spirit begins to chant along, first with the ears, and then with the heart. As the chanting continues, the sorrow of the past begins to fade, replaced by the luminous presence of the Buddha.

Finding Refuge at Hsiang Kuang

By entering the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre, the spirit seeks the grace of Chao Du. The wandering heart is no longer lost; it has found a place of rest and security. This transition from a wandering spirit to a peaceful heart is the first step toward true liberation. The spirit now makes a sincere vow to seek rebirth in the Western Pure Land, and to continue its practice by aligning its heart and actions with the Buddha-heart.

The Path to Buddhahood

This is not merely the story of a single spirit lost in the six realms of rebirth. There are countless spirits in the space around us who are waiting for this same opportunity. Through the compassionate work of the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre, we open up space to save these infinite beings. The wandering heart is no longer lost; it has turned toward peace. Whether in this world or in other realms, we continue to perform Chao Du to save countless souls. We offer our deepest gratitude to Amitabha and Practitioner Su for their boundless grace in helping these spirits leave suffering behind. By chanting Namo Amituofo, the path to Buddhahood is finally attained.

Namo Amituofo