The Essence of Purity

During the second session of the Thrice Yearning Ceremony, Practitioner Xia Lianju offered profound guidance on the nature of purity. This teaching serves as a beacon for all practitioners seeking to cleanse their body, mind, and spirit.

The Responsibility of the Monastic Community

For the monastics, the purification of the body, mind, and the Six Roots is the fundamental requirement for their practice. It is through this state of purity that they are able to shoulder the heavy responsibility of the Buddha's work. Without a pure foundation, the mission of the Tathagata cannot be carried out effectively.

The Invaluable Treasure of a Pure Heart

A heart that is clear and pure is more precious than ten thousand pieces of gold. Within this state of profound purity, one can perceive the infinite meanings of the Dharma. It is a clarity that transcends the mundane world and allows the practitioner to see the Truth with absolute precision.

Overcoming the Obstacles to Purity

If you hold onto your own personal intentions, you will find it difficult to attain true purity. If you grasp tightly onto your fleeting feelings and perceptions, you will remain far from this state of grace. Consider the following barriers to your progress:

• Selfishness and private emotions: These pull you away from the state of purity.
• Comparison: Comparing yourself to others, whether in status or achievement, only disturbs the peace of your original nature.

You must learn to detach from these stains. Practising silence is a manifestation of pure wisdom. When you speak less, you allow your inner wisdom to surface.

The Path of Pure Practice

Every thought you have should be a thought of Namo Amituofo; this is the purest of all thoughts. Purification through silence is the true expression of pure wisdom. You must strive to purify your heart, your body, and your spirit. Let your heart lead the way in elevating your body and spirit to a higher plane of existence.

Realising the True Self

A state of silent, empty purity is the eternal light. This eternal purity, free from the ego, is your true self. To encounter such a pure land where the Buddha abides is a rare and precious opportunity. Use this time to rediscover your true self and realise the Truth. This is the ultimate goal of your practice.

Recorded by the Buddha's disciple, Venerable HaiZe.

Namo Amituofo