Recorded and transcribed by ’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe. These teachings were delivered during the second session of the on May 26, 2024.
The Boundless Radiance of the Buddha
What is a Buddha? A Buddha represents a state of dignity that is infinite, pure, and flawless. In this state, there is perfect equality, with no distinctions of high or low. A Buddha possesses the power of perfect —awakening oneself, awakening others, and achieving the ultimate realisation. This state is defined by great , great courage, great diligent practice, and a great, fearless heart. When we speak of the greatness of the Buddha, we are referring to a quality that is boundless and without limit.
Awakening the Inherent Buddha-nature
The Buddha-nature is the inherent quality within all of us, waiting to be fully revealed. It is characterised by several essential virtues:
Compassion: A heart that feels for all beings.
: A natural state of inner happiness.
Letting go: The ability to release attachments.
Wisdom: The clear insight of Prajna.
Inclusivity: A vast mind-capacity that embraces all.
True Heart: The original, unadulterated essence of our being.
To cultivate this nature, one must focus on accumulating merit and wisdom, and regularly seek the company of a true spiritual friend. By practising selflessness and , and by remaining humble and modest, one begins to merge with the physical world—wishing to be as free as the wind, mountains & rivers. When we view all things as one, we naturally align ourselves with the Universal Principle, the Truth, and the Right Way, never deviating from this path.
Walking the Path of Goodness
When beings create a good cause, they are practising Goodness. This involves the absence of the and the . A practitioner of Goodness does not harbour greed, anger, delusion, or arrogance; they do not doubt others, nor do they doubt themselves. They are free from the cravings for wealth, sex, fame, food, and sleep.
By being kind, serving the community without seeking reward, forming good affinities with others, and listening to counselling to change one's ways, the practitioner naturally receives the fruits of their actions. This alignment with the Universal Principle, the Truth, and the Right Way brings joy, happiness, and to all beings.
The Veils of the Demon-nature
Conversely, the demon-nature manifests when one is rigid, stubborn, and refuses to listen to counselling. It is defined by strong ego-attachment and subjective views that are difficult to tame. This nature is marked by intense greed, heavy anger, deep delusion, arrogance, and a suspicious heart. Those under the influence of this nature are often obsessed with wealth, sex, fame, and the indulgence of food and sleep.
When beings create a negative cause, they inevitably reap the fruits of their actions. This leads to fear, suffering, and, in the most severe cases, the retribution of the hells.
The Journey Toward Pure Awakening
Most people live in a state where Goodness and evil are mixed. If one's good nature is stronger, the Buddha-nature will manifest more clearly. If one's evil nature is stronger, the demon-nature will dominate. During the process of practice and purification, you must be vigilant.
Do not allow the evil or demon-nature to manifest. You must strive to sever these negative tendencies so that your inherent Goodness can shine through. By continuing to purify your heart and deepening your Goodness, you will eventually enter the state of Buddha-nature. Only then will you have the opportunity to reach the state of an awakened being, characterised by pure, unblemished Goodness. Namo Amituofo.
