The Essence of Awakening and Equanimity

Teachings from Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju, recorded and transcribed by Namo Amituofo’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe.

During the third session of the Thrice Yearning Ceremony on 26 October 2024, Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju provided the following guidance on the nature of Awakening and Equanimity.

The Foundation of Awakening and Equanimity

Awakening is the opening of the true self. Equanimity is the state of a peaceful, balanced heart. In our practice, we must walk the path through equanimity, for it is within this stillness that our meditative concentration becomes clear and luminous. Even when one reaches the state of Awakening, it is received with a peaceful heart, accepting the truth of the moment with a mind that is empty, clear, and bright. We face all situations from within this state of deep meditative concentration.

The Process of Purification

Awakening occurs because the mind is liberated. When our Body-Mind-Spirit is purified, the energy within us flows without obstruction. This is a state of unified coordination. It occurs naturally when the heart is peaceful and free from waves of emotion, and when there is no external interference. Awakening is a powerful force that radiates throughout the entire body. In that instant, all past confusion and difficult situations become perfectly clear and understandable.

The Opening of the Six Sense Organs

As the Six Sense Organs: eyes, ears, nose, tongue, body, and mind are opened, the inherent power of our true self is revealed. This is not something that comes from the outside; it is the manifestation of our own inner capacity. Awakening is the ultimate goal for all practitioners, and it also marks the true beginning of our work to save the world and rescue all suffering beings. At that moment, the practitioner naturally prioritises the needs of all beings, acting with a spirit of no-self and selflessness.

The Interdependence of Mind and Practice

Awakening and an equanimous heart are cause and effect for one another. If your mind is filled with fluctuations and disturbances, it is merely the manifestation of your karma. This shows that you are not yet able to be the master of your own life, as your heart remains stained by attachments, restlessness, and a lack of meditative concentration. Conversely, a peaceful and equanimous heart, free from waves of agitation, will greatly assist you in reaching Awakening. An awakened being possesses a pure and equanimous heart because this is the inherent nature of the true self. Consequently, the skill of remaining unmoved while the world moves around you is naturally achieved.

Namo Amituofo