Wisdom in Action: Teachings from Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju

Recorded and transcribed by Namo Amituofo’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe.

June 15, 2025.

Teachings from Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju:

Within the impermanent Dharma Realm and this world of suffering, beings manifest in countless forms and categories. The external environment is vast and ever-changing, the hearts of beings are in constant flux, and their actions are diverse. Because of this, we require what can be called Wisdom in Action. This is the application of profound wisdom to adjust the heart and character of beings, helping them return to the right path and achieve the ultimate goal of purification.

The Essence of Wisdom in Action

What does it mean to possess Wisdom in Action? It is the ability to understand, and even penetrate, the Universal Principle, the Truth, and the Right Way, as well as the true reality of all things. If a practitioner is diligent in their practice, they may experience the manifestation of the Six Roots, such as the opening of the wisdom eye. With this, they can:

• Observe the potential and capacity of all beings.
• Adapt to the ever-changing circumstances of the world.
• Act in accordance with the Universal Principle, the Truth, and the Right Way without ever violating them.

Those who are dedicated to saving beings must especially employ this Wisdom in Action when facing the task of teaching and transforming others.

When is Wisdom in Action Required?

There are specific situations where this wisdom is essential for the practitioner:

• When teaching stubborn beings: When beings are rigid, difficult to subdue, and refuse to listen to counsel, they often hold onto their own subjective views and prejudices. Their behaviour may even become deviant or violate the Precepts. In such cases, one must use wisdom to help them face their situation and turn their hearts around.
• When facing the trials of life: When beings lack the strength to face the impermanence of old age, sickness, and the manifestation of karma, Wisdom in Action allows us to assist them in navigating these difficult and painful days with the least amount of suffering.
• When dealing with external interference: When the Body-Mind-Spirit of a being is disturbed by demon crowds or external spirits, one must use wisdom to subdue these influences and reduce the harm and damage to the absolute minimum.

The Path of Transformation

We must teach through our own example, through our words, and through formal lectures. By doing so, we allow those who are being taught to be naturally influenced and nurtured. This process of subtle transformation eventually becomes a part of their own daily conduct and character.

When a student is practising but finds that their "self," personal ego, and selfishness have not yet been changed, these traits often manifest as obstacles and dilemmas in their practice. In these moments, we must help the student use Wisdom in Action to break through these barriers. However, the most fundamental method for success remains the practitioner's own perseverance and boldness in changing their personality traits.

The situations listed above are merely a few examples where Wisdom in Action is required, provided here for your reference and contemplation.

Namo Amituofo