Knowledge and Practice: A Path to Awakening

Teachings from Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju, recorded by the chief writer, Venerable HaiZe.

On the second of October, 2022, Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju provided the following guidance regarding the vital relationship between what we know and how we act.

The Harmonious Dance of Wisdom and Deed

To learn is to know, but one must also rise to act. When you encounter that which you do not yet understand, you must strive to know it. When you identify areas where you must be vigilant, you must take precautions so that you do not commit errors. When you face tasks that are difficult to perform, you must still find the strength to carry them out. This is the only way to make true progress on the path.

Reflecting Upon the Mirror of the Dharma

You have been listening to the sutras and hearing the Dharma for many years. Have you allowed yourself to be transformed and influenced by the teachings and the personal example of Practitioner Su? Have you truly learned from these lessons, and when you realise you have made a mistake, do you have the courage to correct it? Or do you still cling to your own views and ego-attachment, dismissing these matters as unimportant?

Do you understand the profound importance of aligning your knowledge with your actions? Are you putting these teachings into practice with an active and persistent spirit? Only through such dedication can you ensure that your vows are fulfilled.

The Weight of Karma and the Cycle of Woe

When you see beings manifesting before you to seek revenge, or when you witness the suffering of birth, aging, sickness, and death, are you able to fear the laws of karma and cause and effect? Do you understand that the cycle of rebirth is terrifying and that one cannot easily control one's own destiny within it? If you truly understand this, you will no longer create negative causes, and you will be spared the bitter fruits of suffering.

The Compassionate Vow to Liberate All Beings

When you observe that beings are trapped in the cycle of birth, aging, sickness, and death, and that they have no one to save them, do you feel a deep sense of compassion for their endless suffering? If you do, you must be fiercely diligent in your practice to see your true nature. By attaining the Dharma Body, you will gain the ability to perform Chao Du and save countless beings.

You must carry the responsibility of spreading the Dharma, saving the world, and helping beings on your shoulders. Follow Namo Amituofo, walk alongside the Buddha to resolve the suffering of all beings, and guide them into the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss so they may finally leave the cycle of rebirth behind.

Namo Amituofo