Understanding the Nature of Conditioned Phenomena

The Illusion of the World

In the Diamond Sutra, it is taught that all conditioned phenomena are like dreams, illusions, bubbles, and shadows; they are like dew and like lightning. One should view them in this way. But what exactly are these conditioned phenomena? They refer to everything that is impermanent, everything that undergoes constant change, and everything that exists within the cycle of cause and effect. In this world, all people, objects, and events are considered conditioned phenomena. Because we live our lives immersed in these shifting conditions, our hearts and minds fluctuate constantly. This instability attracts negative karma, invites the presence of karmic creditors, and draws in attached spirits and demon crowds. We find ourselves suffering under their interference, their demands for repayment, and the weight of past grievances.

The Cycle of Suffering

As we live within this realm of conditioned phenomena, we often find ourselves entangled with the Five Desires—wealth, lust, fame, food, and sleep—and the Five Poisons—Greed, Anger, Ignorance, Arrogance, and Doubt. People often mistake this state of suffering for the natural order of life. However, this is merely the cycle of rebirth in the human realm. As we age, fall ill, and eventually face the suffering of death, our spirit leaves the body, and this life comes to an end. Throughout this process, the quality of our spirit rises and falls based on our actions. If we commit evil, we sink into the hells to endure suffering. If we perform good deeds, we may rise to the Celestial Realm. For countless lifetimes, we have been drifting up and down in this sea of change, unaware that there exists a true self that is beyond suffering—a state of pure, unconditioned bliss that does not arise or perish.

Returning to the Unconditioned

To truly practise the Dharma is to seek and recover this unconditioned true self. This is the path to eternal life, where one can finally take charge of one's own destiny. The spirit is inherently unborn and undying; it is not controlled by the impermanent laws of karma. By continuously elevating the quality of your spirit, you can rediscover your original nature. When you learn to see through and let go of all conditioned phenomena, you begin to walk the path of true liberation. You must realise that the world you perceive is fleeting, and your focus should shift toward the eternal reality of your true self.

The Compassion of Namo Amituofo

Our Buddha is infinitely compassionate. Namo Amituofo sees the suffering of all beings and wishes to help everyone leave suffering behind and find true happiness. Therefore, He has gathered all merits, all virtuous methods, and all benefits into the six-character name: Namo Amituofo. You only need to chant this name with a sincere vow to receive these immense benefits. Through this practice, you can attain the Buddha-Recitation Samadhi and the wisdom of the Dharani. By chanting Namo Amituofo, you ensure your rebirth in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. Once there, you will be able to continue your practice under the guidance of the Buddha until you reach full Buddhahood, leaving behind all suffering and attaining ultimate, everlasting joy. Namo Amituofo.