Transcending Gender: The Path to Our True Nature

The Equality of Our True Nature

Whether one is male or female, every individual possesses the potential to rediscover the Buddha nature within them. Regardless of the physical form we inhabit in this life, our original nature remains identical. Once a practitioner reaches the state of an awakened being, they no longer rely on the fleeting perceptions of the physical body. Instead, they allow their true self to take charge of their life. This is the path to attaining true purity and equality, allowing one to live a life that is genuinely cool, refreshing, and free.

The ultimate goal of our practice is to reach this state of awakening and attain Buddhahood. In this realm of ultimate truth, the infinite Wisdom, virtues, and auspicious characteristics are not divided by gender. All Buddhas walk the same path, and in that state, there is no distinction between male and female. The Buddha-heart, the Buddha-vow, and the Buddha-actions—which are dedicated to saving oneself and saving all beings—do not differ based on gender. Our spiritual life is unborn and undying; it transcends the temporary labels of male and female.

The Illusion of Gender and the Cycle of Rebirth

In the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, there is no distinction of gender. Upon rebirth, all beings manifest in the auspicious form of a male, transcending the limitations of the physical body. However, when we are governed by the laws of karma and the cycle of rebirth, we become trapped in the illusion of gender. Because of the differences in our physical bodies, reproductive capabilities, personal ego, and selfishness, we develop distinct habits and behaviours. These differences lead us to create different types of karma, which in turn cause us to suffer the consequences of the cycle of rebirth again and again.

High-level spiritual life is not subject to the turbulence of gendered attraction or contact. Where there is a division of male and female, the hells manifest. Romantic attachments between men and women inevitably cause turbulence in the heart and mind, leading to the manifestation of desire. Unless protected by the legitimate bond of marriage, such attachments lead to the commission of adultery. This creates heavy karma, resulting in the suffering of the cycle of rebirth and the retribution of the hells—specifically the copper pillar hell for men and the iron bed hell for women.

Maintaining Purity in Practice

In the practice of Mahayana Buddhism, it is essential for all, especially those who have taken the vows of a monk or nun, to ensure that their Six Roots are pure. If one allows the heart to be moved by gendered attraction or desire, one is creating the karma of adultery. This is even more severe if there is any verbal, physical, or intimate contact. Such actions can lead to the most severe retribution in the hells. One must be extremely cautious and vigilant in every thought and action.

We must remember that our practice is a journey from confusion to awakening, from wrong paths to the right path, and from impurity to purity. By guarding our hearts and minds, we can avoid the pitfalls of desire and stay true to the path of the Buddha. Let us strive to maintain this purity, for it is the foundation upon which we can attain Buddhahood and fulfil our vow to save all suffering beings. This teaching was recorded by the Buddha's disciple, Venerable HaiZe.

Namo Amituofo