Transcending the Polluted Mind

Teachings from Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju; recorded and transcribed by Namo Amituofo’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe.

The path of spiritual purification and the life of worldly pollution are two entirely different ways of existing. To understand the nature of our practice, we must first recognise the environment in which we live.

The World of Constant Fluctuation

This world is built upon material foundations. As people live within this realm, their body, mind, and spirit are constantly fluctuating, driven by the Five Desires and the external six dusts. We find ourselves in a state where karma is constantly manifesting. We live alongside our karmic creditors and attached spirits, and over time, we have become so accustomed to this state that we no longer notice the burden it places upon our souls.

As time flows onward, we pass day after day through the inevitable cycle of birth, aging, sickness, and death. Our physical bodies are trapped in a perpetual loop of chasing after satisfaction, achieving it, and then immediately chasing after something new. In this worldly life, learning how to halt this cycle of pollution is the most important task for any practitioner.

The Path of Purification

True practice is the act of living a simple, purified life. It is an attitude of having few desires and knowing contentment, expressed through our actual daily actions. Regardless of the time or the situation you find yourself in, the ability to keep your body, mind, and spirit in a state of purity—free from contamination—is the true measure of your meditative concentration.

By diligently practising the purification of the mind and chanting Namo Amituofo, you can attain this deep meditative concentration. When you first begin your practice, you may find your mind is unsettled, easily swayed by your surroundings, and your internal state is dictated by external conditions. However, through persistent effort, you will reach a state where your mind is no longer moved by the environment. Your internal state will begin to influence the world around you, rather than the other way around.

Signs of a Pure Mind

When your Six Roots interact with the external six dusts, how can you tell if your practice is succeeding? You can observe your progress through these three signs:

• An Unmoved Mind: When you encounter any person, object, or situation, you remain calm and unmoved. You transition from the polluted habits of a busy, talkative mind into a state of quiet, peaceful, and smiling practice.
• The Fading of Delusions: Regardless of what sounds or words you hear, your heart remains steady. The delusion, discrimination, and attachment that once clouded your perception begin to fade, eventually becoming non-existent.
• Deepening Devotion: You move from a place of not understanding the magnificent power of the Buddha-name to a state of diligent chanting, eventually attaining the Buddha-Recitation Samadhi.

By following these steps, you will find the strength to leave suffering behind and find true happiness. Namo Amituofo.