Purifying the Heart

During the third session of the Thrice Yearning Ceremony, we are reminded of the fundamental importance of the heart in our spiritual journey. Everything in your life arises from the heart. Whether you are in a state of purity or impurity depends entirely on the condition of your heart. You must diligently protect this heart of yours, for when the heart is guarded, your body and spirit will naturally attain a state of profound purity.

The Sovereign of the Body

The heart is the sovereign of the body. In your daily practice, you must always move forward and never allow yourself to retreat. You must always strive for purity and never allow yourself to be stained by the defilements of the world. Consider everything that manifests in your life, everything you do, and everything you think. Who is truly in control? Is it your true self, or are you being led by your karmic creditors? The answer lies entirely in your thoughts.

If your thoughts are focused on the benefit of all beings, your true self remains the master. If your thoughts are focused on selfish desires, your karmic creditors take the lead. Everything depends on the state of your heart.

The Interplay of Heart and Thought

The heart and your thoughts are inextricably linked; they are related with every breath you take. To protect your heart is to protect your thoughts, and to protect your thoughts is to protect your heart. In their original state, the heart and thoughts are empty and void. Your true self is the master of the heart. However, because you fill your heart and mind with worldly objects, you obscure the light of your true self. It is a great pity to lose sight of this precious sovereign within.

The heart and your thoughts are like the back of the hand and the palm; they are inseparable. You must protect them at all times and never allow them to be covered by the dust of defilement. Students of Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre, you must understand that there is no external defilement that can truly stain your body and mind; all impurities arise from within yourself.

Cherishing the Infinite Light

You must learn to cherish this life and diligently protect your existence in this world. While your physical life has a limited duration, the purity of your heart is infinite. The precious light of your true self shines brightly, and it is here, at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre, that you can truly realise it. Let us continue to chant Namo Amituofo, keeping our hearts pure and our minds focused on the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss.

Namo Amituofo