Progress and Degeneration in Spiritual Practice

Teachings from Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju, recorded by the Buddha's disciple, Venerable HaiZe.

March 18, 2022

The Illusion of Packaging

The human body is a vessel that reveals a great deal about our inner state. In our daily lives, we often develop a habit of presenting only the aspects of ourselves that we deem acceptable. We strive to show others our best qualities—the Goodness, the beauty, and the traits that others find pleasing. Conversely, we tend to hide the aspects we consider ugly, undesirable, or shameful. We bury the parts of ourselves that we fear others might judge. In the world, this is known as packaging.

However, for a practitioner, this habit of packaging is a significant obstacle. The goal of our practice is not to create a polished exterior, but to refine and adjust the true self. We must work towards a state where our inner and outer selves are perfectly consistent, pure, and untainted. Only when we achieve this transparency does the possibility of making genuine progress and seeing our true nature manifest.

The Necessity of Authenticity

If we continue to rely on packaging, we are merely presenting a false, hypocritical version of ourselves that lacks internal consistency. No matter how much time you spend or how much effort you invest in your practice, if you are not addressing the authentic self, you are not making real progress. It is difficult to move forward step by step, and it is even more difficult to see your true nature, if you are not being completely honest with your own heart.

The Reality of Physical Decline

As we age, or if our practice deviates from the right path, our physical bodies will inevitably show signs of decline. We may experience the natural processes of ageing, the onset of various illnesses, or a general loss of vitality. These situations often manifest as:

• Muscle atrophy and a loss of physical strength
• Slower cognitive and physical reactions
• A general sluggishness in our movements

These conditions are often beyond the control of human effort; they are the natural result of the laws of karma and the passage of time. They are difficult to resist through physical means alone.

Counteracting Degeneration through Diligence

If, however, you are diligent and fiercely diligent in your practice, you can effectively counteract these signs of ageing and illness. When your practice is sincere, your muscles may not wither as quickly with age. Your reactions and movements may remain sharp and agile, and your overall health may be maintained at a stable level, or even show signs of improvement. This is the tangible benefit of a heart that is aligned with the Dharma.

Returning to the True Self

For those who wish to find their true self, the process of Body-Mind-Spirit purification is essential. As you purify your heart, you will gradually recover your original, innate abilities. If you notice that your Body-Mind-Spirit condition is deteriorating, it is a clear signal that you are drifting further away from the state of Awakening. When this happens, you must quickly repent, change your ways, and engage in fiercely diligent practice. Stopping the speed of this degeneration and ageing is the primary duty of every practitioner.

Namo Amituofo