Unlocking the Heart: Teachings on the Heart's Lock
Teachings from Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju
Recorded and transcribed by Namo Amituofo’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe.
The Weight of the Heart's Lock
When your heart is locked, the radiant Buddha-light cannot shine within. Consequently, your heart remains closed and your spirit cannot find true . You may wonder who placed this heavy lock upon your heart. In truth, it was you, the owner of the heart, who locked it. Therefore, it is also you who must take the responsibility to open it.
Why do we lock our hearts so tightly? It is because we hold onto too many memories from the past. We cling to the bits and pieces of our lives, recording every detail within the depths of our hearts. We fear that if we let go, these past experiences will fade away or be lost forever. To protect these memories, we have placed this heavy, impenetrable lock upon our inner sanctuary.
The Dust of the Past
However, consider the nature of these memories. The people and events of the past have long since changed; many have departed, and the circumstances of those days no longer exist. Yet, your original nature—which is inherently pure, luminous, and flawless—has been covered up by the thick dust of these accumulated memories. Because of this, there is no longer any space for the light of your true nature to shine through. This is why your heart feels so grey, heavy, and devoid of strength.
The Key to Liberation
No one else can open this heart's lock for you. Only you, the owner, possess the power to release it. This lock is unique; it recognises the voice of its owner. It requires you to be sincere and truly earnest in your practice. You must chant the name of Namo Amituofo ten times with a heart of complete sincerity. Only then will the lock automatically release its hold.
The Radiance of
Once the lock is released, the door to your heart will swing open. The Buddha-light will then be able to shine directly into your heart, sweeping away the dust of the past. It will gently clear away those lingering memories that have burdened you for so long. As the light enters, your original nature will be revealed once more, allowing you to find true peace and express a genuine, radiant smile. This is the path to leaving suffering behind and finding true happiness.
Namo Amituofo
More from Teachings of Practitioner Xia Lian Ju
The Boundless Grace of the Buddha
Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju shares profound insights on the immeasurable grace of the Buddha, the manifestation of Bodhisattvas across the six realms, and the rare, magnificent opportunity for spiritual growth at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre.
The Radiance of the True Nature
Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju explains the profound nature of Buddha-light, how it purifies the soul, and how the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre serves as a beacon of hope for all beings.
Lay Down Your Baggage and Journey Home
A profound teaching on the soul's journey through the cycle of rebirth, the heavy burden of worldly attachments, and the compassionate call of Namo Amituofo to return to our true home in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss.
Humbly Seeking Guidance: Teachings from Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju
Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju offers profound guidance on the necessity of humility, repentance, and the unwavering practice of chanting Namo Amituofo to achieve liberation and rebirth in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss.
More by Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre
The Redemption of a Hollywood Icon
A candid reflection from the spirit of Elizabeth Taylor, who shares her journey from the blinding lights of Hollywood to the serene, transformative teachings of the Buddha in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss.
The King of Pop's Journey to the Western Pure Land
Michael Jackson shares his journey from the pressures of global fame to the peace of the Western Pure Land, revealing the truth behind his life and his ultimate deliverance.
A Voice from the Darkness: Helen Keller's Journey
Helen Keller, the renowned deaf-blind philanthropist, shares her journey from the darkness of the ghost realm to the light of the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, guided by the compassion of Namo Amituofo and Practitioner Su.
The Scientist's Awakening: An Interview with Albert Einstein
Albert Einstein, once considered the most brilliant mind in human history, reflects on his life, the nature of 'science' versus the Truth of the Dharma, and his existence in the Western Pure Land.
A President's Repentance: Ronald Reagan's Journey to the Pure Land
Ronald Reagan, the 40th President of the United States, reflects on his life, his political career, and his profound journey from the depths of hell to the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss through the compassion of Namo Amituofo and Practitioner Su.
The Reflection of a Nation's Founder
This is a record of an interview with Kim Il Sung, the founder and former leader of North Korea, who sought deliverance at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia. He now resides in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. This account reflects upon his life and the spiritual truths he has realised since his passing thirty-two years ago. Recorded by the chief writer, Venerable Fa Hui, on May 18, 2026.
About the Author
Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre
Contributed to Pure Land Buddhism knowledge library