Broadly Embracing All Beings

Teachings from Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju. Recorded by Venerable HaiZe.

19 February 2023

The Tapestry of Diverse Beings

The character of beings is incredibly diverse. We arrive at this Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre from all corners of the world, carrying with us the unique imprints of our lives. Consider the vast differences that define our existence: we come from different families and social environments, we span various age groups, we originate from different nations, and we exist within different dimensions of time and space. Because of these varied backgrounds, our personal habits and the ego-driven aspects of our character differ significantly. When we live and practise together, it is essential that we learn to broadly embrace all beings. This is not merely a social courtesy; it is a fundamental requirement for spiritual growth.

The Boundless Compassion of the Buddha-Heart

The Buddha-heart is vast and boundless, capable of encompassing all beings without exception. It is a heart of infinite compassion and tolerance. However, we must ask ourselves a difficult question: if we insist on engaging in actions that harm ourselves and others, how can the Buddha save us? The path to liberation requires our own participation. We must be the ones to save ourselves, and we must possess the awareness to awaken from our slumber.

When Namo Amituofo is truly present in your life, the Buddha can assist you in maintaining the right knowledge and the Right Way. When you are protected from the interference of a demon, you are able to continue your practice without obstruction. Therefore, I urge all disciples to engage in diligent practice with sincerity and focus.

The Two Stages of Diligent Practice

Your practice must evolve as you progress on the path. Before you reach the state of an awakened being, your diligent practice should be focused on two primary goals: purification, which involves cleansing the mind of defilements and attachments, and the effort to eliminate karma and reduce obstacles, working to dissolve the negative seeds planted in the past. Once you have achieved the state of an awakened being, your diligent practice shifts its focus toward the noble work of saving the world and helping all beings.

The Path of True Change

If you wish for your heart to mirror the Buddha-heart, you must learn to broadly embrace all beings. Do not focus on the faults of others; instead, constantly examine your own shortcomings and mistakes. You must scrutinise even the most subtle aspects of your own mental notes, expressions, and physical actions. As long as there is still a ripple of disturbance in your mind, it means you are still lacking and have not yet truly changed.

You must be extremely cautious and careful in your conduct. Do not offend others or cause them unhappiness. It is far better to take a step back yourself than to create enmity with others. If you create enmity, you will inevitably attract karma to manifest, which will only lead to further suffering. To truly change your ways is to avoid these conflicts entirely, ensuring that you remain on the path of peace and purity. Namo Amituofo.