Recorded and transcribed by ’s disciple, Venerable Fa Hui
In the first session of the held on December 27, 2024, Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju provided profound guidance on the methods of teaching and transformation.
The Art of Compassionate Guidance
Both gentle, indirect guidance and direct, forthright instruction are essential methods used to teach and transform all beings. When encountering individuals who possess fragile hearts and a strong sense of self-importance, one must be careful. If a teacher points directly to the core of their issues, they may find it too difficult to accept or endure. Therefore, it is necessary to begin with gentle, compassionate guidance to soften their resistance and prepare their minds for the truth.
Conversely, for those who are stubborn, difficult to transform, or burdened by arrogance and pride, a different approach is required. If the teacher does not point directly to the heart of their problems, they will not be truly convinced, nor will they be able to subdue their own ego. To truly help them, one must be firm and direct, cutting through their delusions so they may finally see the truth of their situation.
The Obstacles Within
A truly enlightened teacher is rare, and a student who is ready to receive the highest teachings is equally difficult to find. At Hsiang Kuang Buddhist Centre, the conditions for learning are perfect, and the guidance of a great teacher is always available. However, the fourfold assembly of disciples often struggles to overcome the obstacles presented by their own personalities. Because of these internal barriers, their practice may fail to break through, stagnate, or even regress.
If one can overcome these personality-driven obstacles, the opportunity for arises. Yet, as long as one’s personality remains rigid and afflictions are not severed, one must continue to be guided and taught. Whether the teaching is delivered through gentle words, direct instruction, or the sudden, sharp shock of a master’s reprimand, the combination of and authority is a vital method for the salvation of all beings.
The Universal Reach of the
The beings who benefit from these teachings are not limited to the fourfold assembly of disciples present at the temple. The reach of the Dharma is vast and encompasses a multitude of others:
The and attached spirits residing within the bodies of the disciples.
The various demon crowds who come to listen to the Dharma.
The countless beings residing in the Western Land of Dharma Nature.
All beings throughout the vastness of the Dharma Realm, including those in the hells, the underworld, and the celestial realms.
All these beings are able to hear the lectures given by Practitioner Su at Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre, which explain the teachings of Namo Amituofo and the guidance provided by the masters. Truly, Practitioner Su acts as a guide for both humans and celestial beings.
The Path to True Liberation
By listening to the sutras and hearing the Dharma, these beings come to understand the truth of their existence. They benefit from the teachings, which inspire them to quickly repent, change their ways. They begin to break through delusion and attain . Furthermore, they are often moved to help their own karmic creditors understand the laws of and cause and effect, leading them to resolve their conflicts willingly. They accept the invitation to receive , which helps them eliminate karma and reduce obstacles on their path to rebirth.
Whether the teaching is delivered with gentleness or with directness, the ability to adapt one's method to the needs of the listener is the mark of great cultivation. It is through this skilful means that we truly leave suffering behind and find happiness.
