Teachings from Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju, recorded and transcribed by ’s disciple, Venerable Fa Hui.
Those who have realised their true nature, as well as teachers and true spiritual friends, possess a profound ability. Through the purification of and , heart, and spirit, they develop a natural capacity for discernment. This is what we call the ability to observe potential. It allows them to perceive the unique potential of every individual they encounter.
The Natural Wisdom of
By understanding the specific conditions and potential of each person, these awakened beings can provide the most suitable guidance. Their goal is to help each individual:
Fully utilise their unique strengths and talents.
Change their personality traits to become more gentle and peaceful.
Address and correct their personal shortcomings.
This guidance helps people to grow and flourish in any environment. More importantly, it empowers them to transform their circumstances rather than being controlled by them. Observing potential is not a learned skill; it is a natural ability inherent within one's true self.
Transforming and Resolving
When one observes the potential of another, they gain a clear understanding of that person's past, their current state of body, heart, and spirit, their mental notes, and their innate capabilities. This insight is used to help the individual manifest their true potential and cultivate a gentle, harmonious character.
Furthermore, this wisdom is used to teach all beings and . It helps to settle grievances and resolve deep-seated conflicts. Through the practice of , these spirits are invited to be saved. By eliminating anger, adjusting the state of the body, heart, and spirit, and maintaining a mind that does not fluctuate, one can effectively stop the manifestation of negative karma and the interference of karmic creditors. Through diligent practice, the dissolution of karma, and the removal of obstacles, one can successfully find their way back to their true self.
The Boundless Scope of
Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, those who have realised their true nature, and true spiritual friends are all highly skilled in observing potential, expounding the , and teaching all beings. This scope of observation is not limited to human beings alone. It extends to all corners of existence:
The Milky Way, the spiritual realms, the heavenly realms, the ghost realm, the hells, and the Demon Realm.
The physical world, including mountains, rivers, earth, flowers, grass, and trees.
Animals such as pigs, horses, cows, and sheep.
Insects such as bees and ants.
All of these are beings that can be observed, taught, and saved, allowing them to find liberation and leave suffering behind. Therefore, having the opportunity to encounter a Buddha, , or a true spiritual friend is a great blessing for all beings. It is the essential condition for liberation, the cessation of suffering, and ultimately, rebirth in the of Ultimate Bliss.
The Path to Liberation at Hsiang Kuang
At Hsiang Kuang: A Sacred Sanctuary, we must rely on the teachings of Namo Amituofo, the guidance of our teachers, and the instructions and suggestions of Practitioner Su. We must learn to listen, face ourselves honestly, and work diligently to change our personality and behaviour. Only through this sincere effort can we achieve true transformation, see our true nature, and attain rebirth in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss.
