Void, Reality, and Awakening

The Dance of Illusion and Reality

What do we mean when we speak of the void, and what do we mean when we speak of the real? In the context of this human world, we often label things as void when they are intangible, invisible, or beyond our immediate comprehension. If something cannot be touched, if its cause is unknown, or if it lacks a physical form, we dismiss it as an illusion or a mere phantom. Conversely, we label things as real when they are visible, tangible, and verifiable. If an event occurs, if it possesses a physical substance, or if we can logically explain it, we accept it as a solid, undeniable fact.

However, these concepts of the void and the real are merely relative. They are opposites, existing as two sides of the same coin. Our perception of what is real and what is void is constantly shifting. It changes based on our environment, the people we interact with, our personal knowledge, and even the latest scientific discoveries. Because these definitions are subject to change, they are not fixed constants. They are part of the cycle of impermanence. They are not the ultimate, unchanging truth.

The Eternal Truth Beyond the Transient

Everything that occurs within the human world, when viewed from a broader perspective, is a manifestation of impermanence. No matter how sophisticated our language may be, or how long we spend debating these concepts, they remain transient. This is one of the fundamental truths of our existence: there is no permanent void, and there is no permanent reality. The only thing that is truly eternal is the state of Awakening, the true self, and the Buddha-nature that is in sync with the Universal Principle, the Truth, and the Right Way.

This eternal reality is not restricted by the boundaries of time or space. It does not change simply because our human perceptions or scientific theories evolve. It is applicable to all things, at all times, and in all places. Those who have achieved Awakening understand this principle clearly. Because they understand, they can freely and skilfully utilise all resources and circumstances to help others and save sentient beings. Even when they make changes in the world, their hearts remain anchored in the true self.

Awakening the Inherent Wisdom

As the World-Honoured One once taught, all sentient beings possess the wisdom, virtues, and auspicious characteristics of the Tathagata. However, because of our delusions and attachments, we cannot realise this for ourselves. These inherent qualities are what we call the true self. The true self manifests naturally. It is clear, luminous, and all-encompassing. You do not need to expend great effort to analyse it, nor can it be purchased with worldly wealth.

People are accustomed to using research to verify what they know. For instance, studies on water crystals have shown that kind and beautiful thoughts and words are welcomed by all living matter and have a positive, healing influence. This is a reflection of the Truth, and it is the way of life for those who have reached Awakening. If something is not aligned with the Truth and the true self, it is subject to change. Only the Truth is the ultimate reality that never changes. In this world, many theories are overturned by new discoveries, only for those new theories to be overturned in turn. This cycle itself is a form of illusion, and it is within this illusory world that we live our lives.

A Luminous Beacon in the Mist

Buddhas and Bodhisattvas manifest within this illusory human world to guide us. The suffering that people experience is also part of this illusion. In this world of confusion and phantoms, Buddhas and Bodhisattvas remain awake and unconfused. They are not swayed by external circumstances. They are real and unchanging. Regardless of time or place, they exist in the present moment. They understand that the past is gone and the future has not yet arrived; both are filled with variables. For those who are truly awake, every present moment is real. Buddhas and Bodhisattvas are the reality within the illusion, leading us forward so that we do not lose our way.

When the Truth and the reality of the Dharma enter into this world of confusion, they act as a bright lamp in the darkness. People rely on this lamp to find clarity amidst the illusions. We save one person, then another; we save as many as we can. Every connection is meaningful, and all beings are one. This is the compassionate work of the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas.

The Compassionate Guidance of Hsiang Kuang

Students of Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre are the fortunate ones who have encountered Practitioner Su in this world of confusion. Practitioner Su has accumulated immeasurable merit and virtue. Through Faith, Vows, and Practice, and by embodying the Body-Mind-Spirit of one who has reached Awakening, Practitioner Su has attained the power of spiritual Chao Du. This is not a matter of luck; it is the result of a life dedicated to the Dharma. Everything is one, and everything is the Buddha. In this current age of confusion, Practitioner Su is here to help you unravel your delusions and guide you toward Awakening. This is a great blessing for you, earned over many lifetimes. You must be diligent in changing your ways and practising hard so that you may reach Awakening as soon as possible.

Recently, Practitioner Su has been giving lectures at the Ying Chuang Centre in Taipei. Beyond the visible audience, there are immeasurable and boundless sentient beings from the Dharma Realm filling the space, even kneeling to hear the Dharma. They have never heard such a profound Pure Land teaching, explained in such accessible language, elucidating the words of Namo Amituofo. It is truly inconceivable! Such an opportunity to hear the sound of the Dharma that leads to Awakening is rare. Those who have the chance to hear it must not let it pass by. You must cherish it deeply.