The World of Light Within the Heart

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

During the Midday Offering of the Thrice Yearning Ceremony held on the 28th of February 2025, Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju provided the following profound teachings on the nature of light and the path to awakening.

The Radiant Treasure Within

Where can one find the world of light? It is not a distant place to be sought in the external world, but rather, it resides within your very own heart. Within this heart lies a priceless treasure: your true self. This true self is inherently luminous and pure, yet it is often obscured by the heavy veils of confusion. Because of this, our hearts—which should be beacons of clarity—become darkened, creating a world of shadows and suffering.

However, you must realise that the world of light within your true self still exists. It is eternal and will never disappear. It is merely covered by the dark world of confusion, which prevents the inner light of your true self from shining forth. Once this darkness of confusion is removed, the light will naturally manifest.

Clearing the Shadows of Confusion

The process of revealing this light is gradual and requires your dedicated effort. As the darkness of confusion retreats by one degree, the light of your true self reveals itself by one degree. When the darkness of confusion has completely receded, the light of your true self will be fully manifest. This is the moment of true Awakening.

The Path of Diligent Practice

Practice is the work you perform upon your own heart. It is the process of transforming your inner state, adjusting your hearts and actions, and refining your conduct. As you engage in this diligent practice, you will find that the darkness of confusion begins to fade. As you continue to work, it will fade further, until eventually, it is gone entirely. When not even a single trace of confusion remains, the light of your true self will shine with complete brilliance.

The Eternal Nature of Light

You must understand the fundamental difference between these two states:

• Confusion: The darkness is not permanent. It is subject to the law of impermanence; it can be changed, and it can be transformed.
• True Self: The light of your true self is eternal. It is the unchanging reality that will never vanish.

For all those gathered here at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre, I encourage you to practise with diligence. By doing so, you can remove the stains of impurity and attain a state of profound purity. If you are still in this body and your life has not yet reached its end, you have the precious opportunity to realise this light within yourself.

The Infinite Splendour of the Western Pure Land

The Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss is not merely a world of light; it is a realm of infinite qualities. When you arrive there, you will experience:

• Infinite Light: A radiance that knows no bounds.
• Infinite Energy: A boundless vitality that sustains all beings.
• Infinite Lifespan: A state of existence beyond the constraints of time.
• Infinite Compassion: A love that embraces all suffering beings without exception.
• Infinite Wisdom: A profound clarity that understands the truth of all things.

This magnificent realm is waiting for you. It is waiting for you to cultivate Faith, Vows, and Practice. Through these, Namo Amituofo will lead you into the Land of the Golden Lotus, where you shall dwell in eternal peace.

Namo Amituofo.