Reading 1:

Compassion and Kindness

A translated piece of《慈悲與善良》by Practitioner Xia Lian Ju （夏蓮居老居士）

Cultivate virtuous roots and attain the fruit of enlightenment (Extracted from the Infinite Life Sutra)

Spiritual Message received by Venerable Hai Yuan

10th January 2025

Original Piece: https://amtbpureland.cc/Kz8IT

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The Nature of Compassion and Kindness

Compassion and kindness are the true nature within us. But over time, they become hidden—covered by ego, selfishness, judgment, false thinking, and attachment. Like sunlight blocked by clouds, they are no longer seen.

Only through inner purification—removing these coverings and impurities—can compassion and kindness reappear.

Simplicity Reveals True Nature

Those who live with compassion and kindness are more likely to realise their true nature. Why? Because their minds are simple and not tangled. The more complicated our thoughts become, the harder it is to see clearly.

Reciting the Buddha’s name (Namo Amituofo)—just one phrase, from beginning to end—is the best way to turn complexity into simplicity.

A World Shaped by Compassion

A person of compassion and kindness lives in a compassionate world. In such a world, people feel peaceful and joyful and light arises naturally.

In a world shaped by compassion and kindness, our thoughts, words, and actions naturally follow the path of goodness. Good actions are created, and harmful ones are left behind. To think kindly, see kindly, speak kindly, and act kindly—this is the natural expression of compassion and kindness.

The Roots of Awakening

From a heart of compassion and kindness, the roots of goodness naturally grow. They lead to the fruit of awakening—Bodhi. This is the foundation for walking the Buddha’s path.

The Vow to Liberate

Those who live with compassion and kindness practice not only to help others, but also to free themselves. Even when they suffer, they continue to cultivate the path—because only through true realisation can they gain the strength to help others.

The Pure Land Path

Those who make this vow—to awaken and help all beings—can follow the Pure Land path: “Give rise to the Bodhi mind, and single-mindedly recite Amitabha Buddha’s name.”

With sincere effort, they receive the Buddha’s support. Through steady practice, they fulfill their vow. And when they awaken to their true nature, they are ready to help countless beings find freedom.