What is Emotion? Teachings from Great Master Hong Yi

The Illusion of Worldly Affection

Within this world, we often find ourselves asking: what is the true nature of emotion? To pledge one's life and death for the sake of worldly emotion is merely a secular attachment, a cycle that binds us to the suffering of the world. To truly 'see through' and 'let go' of these fleeting attachments is the essential path to Buddhahood. We must recognise that these emotions are not the foundation of our true nature, but rather the veils that obscure it.

A Life Dedicated to Awakening

Great Master Hong Yi once walked this same path of profound reflection. To sever the ties of worldly dust and truly understand the nature of reality, he found that he had to constantly observe his own mind, even in the quiet hours of the night. He understood that the path to liberation requires a deep, unwavering commitment to the Truth. By looking inward and reflecting upon the nature of our attachments, we begin to dismantle the barriers that keep us from our original, pure state.

The Constant Light of Namo Amituofo

The sacred name of Namo Amituofo is our beacon of clarity. You must hold this name in your heart 24/7, never letting it slip from your mind. Why is this so vital? Because we fear that even a single moment of messy thoughts will disturb the peace of our hearts and lead us astray. Only by keeping a firm, unwavering heart and following the guidance of Namo Amituofo can we truly break free from the cycle of the six realms of rebirth. We must deeply understand that worldly emotion is the most poisonous of all obstacles, for it constantly disturbs our pure heart and makes our spiritual practice difficult.

Transcending the Self to Save All Beings

When you focus your mind entirely on the Buddha, you begin to transform your thoughts for the sake of all suffering beings. In this state, there is no 'self' and no 'ego' to cling to. You must observe, observe, and observe again. Always remember the initial intention that brought you to this path: to protect your heart of Goodness and to work for the benefit of all beings. When there is no ego, where can suffering exist? Your heart will become as vast as the ocean and as clear as the blue sky, with clouds drifting freely across the horizon. Your only purpose will be to save all beings. Without messy thoughts or sorrow, the sacred name of Namo Amituofo will always be by your side. By chanting Namo Amituofo, you will surely find your way to the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. This message was recorded by the Buddha's disciple, Cao Rudi, acting as chief writer.