The Illusion of Distance and the Unity of the Heart

These teachings were recorded by the chief writer, Venerable HaiZe, on the nineteenth of November, 2021. Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju offers this profound guidance on the nature of distance and the path to awakening.

Beyond the Measurement of Miles

How do we measure the distance between one heart and another? It is a common misconception to believe that distance is defined by the physical length of a road or the vastness of the space between two points. In truth, distance is not a physical reality but a reflection of the internal state of our being. It is determined by the content of our hearts, the depth of our vows, and the nature of our hearts and actions. When we speak of distance in the spiritual sense, we are really speaking about the degree of alignment between our own spirit and the truth of the universe.

The Oneness of Buddha and Self

If you can align your heart, your vows, your strength, and your actions with those of Namo Amituofo, you will find that the distance between your heart and the Buddha-heart vanishes entirely. There is no longer any separation. In this state of unity, Namo Amituofo becomes your own heart, and your heart becomes the Buddha-heart. This is the essence of the path: to merge your limited, individual consciousness with the infinite, compassionate wisdom of the Buddha.

The Western Land Within

Many practitioners wonder about the distance to the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. In the past, it was described as being ten billion Buddha-lands away, a destination requiring a long and arduous journey. However, for those who have realised their true self, this perspective changes completely. There is no distance between your heart and the Western Land. The Western Land is right before your eyes; it is within your own heart. Indeed, your heart is the Western Land itself. When you reach this level of understanding, you no longer look outward for salvation, for you have found the source within.

The Path of True Cultivation

We must engage in True Cultivation, using this temporary, physical body to realise the eternal true self. In a single moment of sincerity, the truth can be revealed. We possess a temporary body that is subject to the limitations of time, yet we also possess an infinite, eternal true self. When this true self is revealed, the temporary body and the true self become one, and the distance between them disappears. When this happens, your true self becomes the master of your life. You will live a life of freedom, coolness, and compassion, dedicated to the work of saving all beings.

The Opening of Infinite Space

When the heart is truly open, the barriers of space dissolve. The communication between the pure and good spirits within your body, the communication with the spirits of the world, and the communication with Namo Amituofo and your teachers become instantaneous. There is no longer any distinction of distance. It is all happening right now, right before your eyes. Namo Amituofo.