The Wisdom of the Human Body and the Path to Awakening
Words of Namo Amituofo
December 4, 2022
Teachings from Namo Amituofo, recorded by the chief writer, Venerable HaiZe.
The Precious Vessel for
The primary advantage of possessing a human body is that it provides a unique vessel for practice. Through this physical form, you have the opportunity to elevate your spirit and eventually realise your true nature. Once you have achieved this state of an awakened being, the power of your spirit can be fully utilised. This power, which is the ability to save the world and help all beings, must be executed through the physical body. You must have this body to possess the opportunity for diligent practice, to change your ways, and to reach the state of an awakened being.
Facing the Challenges of the Physical Form
However, the physical body also brings its own inherent suffering. The cycle of Aging, sickness, and death is tied to this form. Because of these physical limitations, your practice can often be hindered or interrupted. If you wish to succeed in your practice, you must first learn to overcome the suffering associated with Aging, sickness, and death. You must face these situations positively, along with the challenges of your practice, your body, and your . Only by doing so will you find the opportunity to make progress and attain Buddhahood.
The Rhythms of Renewal
is composed of cells, and these cells follow a natural growth cycle. They require sufficient energy and time to rest and to replace the old with the new. This is why the body requires a period of rest during the night. After the body has rested, you can wake up and continue your journey forward with renewed vitality.
The Journey of the Spirit During Sleep
In contrast, the spirit does not require sleep. When the body enters a state of sleep, the spirit often loses its autonomy. It becomes vulnerable to external factors and is frequently drawn away from the body. During these times, the spirit may enter into dreams or wander through different spaces. It may be led into the underworld to face judgment, or it may even be drawn into the hells to undergo punishment. Most people are completely unaware of these occurrences. Those who possess a degree of awareness may become conscious of what their spirit experiences during the night, yet even with this knowledge, they often lack the ability to change the situation. If the spirit that is taken away is the primary spirit, this signifies the end of one's lifespan, and the body will cease to show signs of life.
Mastering the Spirit for the Buddha's Path
Those with a higher level of awareness can master their own spirit. They can maintain autonomy, preventing the spirit from being drawn away by external forces. They are able to maintain the integrity of the spirit, ensuring that it remains complete. When this complete spirit, along with the body and heart, is dedicated to diligent practice and purification on the Buddha's path, one will eventually reach the state of an awakened being. All of you should strive to move towards this goal.
Namo Amituofo
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About the Author
Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre
Contributed to Pure Land Buddhism knowledge library