The Illumination of Buddha-light

During the second session of the Thrice Yearning Ceremony, we are blessed with profound teachings from Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju. These words serve as a guiding light for all practitioners seeking to deepen their connection to the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss and realise their true nature.

The Infinite Reach of the Buddha-light

The Buddha-light is truly infinite, transcending the ten directions without limit. Similarly, the Buddha-name is boundless, filling the entire void of the universe. All of us who are connected by karmic affinity share in this sacred heart-to-heart transmission. This light does not merely touch a few; it universally transcends all beings throughout the boundless Dharma Realm, offering salvation to everyone who is ready to receive it.

The Path of Dharma-joy and Connection

Attaining true Dharma-joy is a gradual process of purification. We must realise that the concepts of no-self and no-other are states we have all experienced before in our long journey through samsara. The present moment is the precious space where we gather together in practice. When our Dharma affinity matures, the truth manifests right here, in this very place, allowing us to see clearly.

The Medicine of the Heart

To progress on this path, we must utilise the medicine of the Dharma. This medicine consists of several essential virtues:

• Compassion: Feeling the suffering of others as our own.
• Joy: Rejoicing in the virtues and liberation of all beings.
• Selfless Giving: The ability to let go of our attachments.

Furthermore, the Ten Great Vows of Samantabhadra serve as the fundamental foundation for our practice. We must learn to see through the cycle of birth, aging, sickness, and death, recognising them as transient phenomena. We must also let go of the emotional entanglements that keep us orbiting in the cycle of rebirth, preventing us from finding peace.

Transcending Karma and Impermanence

When the Buddha’s light illuminates our lives, even our karmic creditors feel the warmth of compassion and find relief. By leaping out of the illusion of impermanence, we realise that we are all one. With the shared vow of Namo Amituofo and the Fragrant Light, we work together to create the path to the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. Let us walk this path with sincerity, knowing that our collective efforts will lead us home.

Namo Amituofo