The Footsteps of Progress

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

29 December 2023

The Choice to Advance

My dear children, are you truly willing to take bold, decisive steps forward on your spiritual journey? Or do you find yourself standing still, hesitant to move, or perhaps even retreating into the shadows of your past? You must make your intentions clear. Only when you express your resolve can the Buddha and Practitioner Su know how best to assist you in your practice. When you are able to believe in yourself and believe in the Buddha, and when you can firmly align your heart with your vows, your mind will become steady and grounded.

The Universal Reach of Hsiang Kuang

Namo Amituofo truly abides at Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre. Through the combined efforts of the Buddha, Practitioner Su, and the fourfold assembly of disciples, the temple is able to reach out to beings throughout the entire Dharma Realm, and our mission is not limited to any single country or region on Earth. Therefore, wherever Practitioner Su and the disciples walk in their journey of progress, all beings have the opportunity to be saved. They are given the chance to enter the Western Land of Dharma Nature, and those who chant the name of the Buddha may be led by Namo Amituofo to be reborn in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss.

Overcoming the Obstacles of the Path

In your practice, you will inevitably encounter challenges. You may face:

• The manifestation of your karmic creditors, who seek to balance past accounts.
• The interference of attached spirits residing within your body.
• The external disturbances caused by demon crowds.

For those whose Faith, Vows, and Practice are clear and firm, the Buddha and Practitioner Su have a point of leverage to offer you support. The power of the Pure Land relies on two forces: your own self-effort and the supportive power of the Buddha. Only when you exert your own strength first can the Buddha’s assistance manifest in your life.

The Three Provisions for Rebirth

Many of the lay practitioners and volunteers in the fourfold assembly of disciples come to the temple because they have made a vow to be reborn in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. Here, they cultivate merit and wisdom, accumulating the three provisions of Faith, Vows, and Practice. Many even hope to be guided by Namo Amituofo and Practitioner Su toward that ultimate destination. Simply arriving at the temple is the first step in starting your journey toward the Western Pure Land.

Perseverance in the Face of Difficulty

Since you have entered Hsiang Kuang, no matter what obstacles you encounter, I hope you will raise your vow, actively improve, and break through your limitations. As long as you are willing to engage in diligent practice and take that next step forward, the Buddha and Practitioner Su will be there to assist you. Do not stop, and do not fall into despair. When you face difficulties, treat them as a process to be overcome so that you may continue your journey forward. Namo Amituofo.