Observing the Heart: Teachings from Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju

The Mirror of Inner Reflection

The practice of observing the heart is an act of profound introspection. Direct your gaze toward your nose, and let your nose guide your focus toward your heart. Layer by layer, you must delve into the depths of your own being, engaging in constant self-reflection. By turning your attention inward, you begin to peel away the layers of confusion that obscure your original, pure state. This practice is not merely a physical posture, but a spiritual discipline that requires constant vigilance and sincerity.

Responding with the Buddha-Heart

Regardless of how others may treat you, you must always respond with the purity of the Buddha-heart. When you are met with challenges, criticism, or hostility, do not allow your heart to be disturbed by the shifting winds of the external world. Instead, maintain the unwavering compassion and equanimity of the Buddha. By anchoring the Buddha-heart at the centre of your being, you transform every interaction into a precious opportunity for spiritual purification and growth. This is the true essence of practising the Dharma in your daily life.

The Great Vow of Compassion

With your heart firmly set on the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, you possess the strength to overcome ten thousand difficulties. Namo Amituofo has issued the Great Vow of compassion to liberate all beings. I, too, follow the Buddha-vow in all my actions. With every step I take, I chant the Buddha-name with sincerity. I sincerely pray that all creatures beneath my feet may hear the Buddha-name and establish a profound connection with the Western Pure Land. Never allow the suffering of all beings to fade from your heart. When suffering compounds upon suffering, the very face of existence becomes distorted and arduous to endure. Yet, when you raise the Buddha-name to purify your body, mind, and spirit, the heavy images of suffering within your heart will gradually fall away.

The Eternal Call of the Western Land

The Western Pure Land is forever present within my heart. Our compassionate Buddha-Father waits patiently for his children to return home. By keeping the Buddha-name at the forefront of your consciousness, you ensure that your path remains clear and your destination is assured. Let your practice be steady, your faith be firm, and your vows be sincere. In this way, you will surely find your way back to the warm embrace of Namo Amituofo. This teaching was recorded by the Buddha's disciple, Venerable HaiZe.

Namo Amituofo