Awakening Without Delusion

The Inner Sanctuary of the Three Jewels

The transmission of the Buddha’s gate relies entirely upon the Three Jewels—the Buddha, the Teachings, and the Sangha Community. It is vital for every practitioner to understand that these Three Jewels are not merely external entities; they are fully present and complete within your own true self. Although your true self is essentially empty, it is simultaneously the source of all things. It is the foundation upon which our entire practice rests.

When we express these concepts through language, we define them as follows:

• The Buddha: One who has realised their true nature. A Buddha is someone who has broken through all confusion to attain enlightenment, possessing the wisdom to awaken both themselves and all other beings.
• The Dharma: The sacred methods and paths provided by Shakyamuni Buddha. These teachings flow directly from the Buddha-nature within, specifically designed to resolve the confusion, ignorance, and various obstacles that hinder our progress.
• The Sangha: Those within the community who take on the responsibility of removing defilements and attaining purity. They are dedicated to breaking through delusion, achieving spiritual freedom, and carrying the responsibility of transmitting the True Teachings to future generations.

Living in the World Without Delusion

To realise one's true nature and attain Buddhahood means to be awake and never deluded. When you achieve this state, you can walk through this world without being swayed or confused by its many distractions. You will be able to live in accordance with the Universal Principle, the Truth, and the Right Way, ensuring that your path remains straight and true, never veering into wrong or biased directions.

In the current age, those who have realised their true nature are rare and difficult to encounter. The transmission of the True Teachings requires the presence of the Three Jewels in this world. More importantly, it relies upon the monastics and practitioners working together with diligent practice. We must strive to remain pure and untainted, seeking to rediscover our true self as early as possible.

The Call to Diligent Practice

This is not merely a slogan to be recited; it is a call to action. We must save ourselves and, in doing so, help others leave suffering behind and find rebirth in the Western Pure Land. This goal can only be achieved through the process of right faith and right understanding in Buddhist education. You must put these teachings into actual practice, embodying them in your daily life. Only through such sincere and consistent effort can you truly attain the fruits of your practice.

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

Namo Amituofo