The Beginning and the End of the Spirit

The Eternal Nature of the Spirit

During the Thrice Yearning Ceremony, we gather to invite spirits and listen to the profound teachings of the Buddha. Namo Amituofo reminds us that our true nature is vast and timeless. The spirit is without beginning or end, existing far beyond the constraints of time and space. In contrast, the physical body is a temporary vessel that has a beginning and an end. It is subject to the natural laws of birth, ageing, sickness, and death.

The Path of Awakening

How can we bridge the gap between our transient physical existence and our eternal spirit? Namo Amituofo teaches that using this body—which has a beginning and an end—to awaken the spirit and true self that is without beginning or end requires great effort. This is the essential work of a practitioner. One must dedicate oneself to the path of practice to uncover the brilliance of the original nature that lies hidden beneath layers of worldly dust.

Purification and Diligence

To achieve this, you must engage in a process of deep transformation. Namo Amituofo provides the following guidance for your daily practice:

• Repent for past wrongs: Sincerely acknowledge your previous mistakes and resolve never to repeat them.
• Be fiercely diligent: Maintain a steady and unwavering commitment to your practice.
• Change the 'self,' personal ego, and selfishness: Let go of the deep-seated habits that cloud your clarity.
• Clear the spirit: Work to penetrate the polluted memories stored within your spirit, which have accumulated over countless lifetimes.
• Overcome karmic obstacles: Break through the heavy influence of the karmic creditors associated with your physical body.

Only when you have successfully navigated these challenges can you truly see the pure, untainted nature of your true self. This clarity is the fruit of your sincere and persistent efforts.

The Infinite Vow

It is important to understand that your practice is merely the beginning of a much greater journey. Finding your true self is simply the process of returning home. The ultimate goal is to extend your compassion to all beings, helping them leave suffering behind and find rebirth in the Western Pure Land. This work of salvation is without beginning, without end, and without stopping. It is the eternal vow of the Bodhisattva, carried out in perfect alignment with the Universal Principle, the Truth, and the Right Way.

Namo Amituofo