The Importance of Careful Speech and Conduct

The Significance of Every Action

Do not neglect small acts of goodness, and do not commit small acts of evil. This ancient wisdom serves as a vital reminder for every practitioner. Within the sacred grounds of the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre, every sound we make carries weight. When our voices disturb the peace of the Buddha-land, interrupt the quiet retreats of others, or unsettle the ghost deities who reside here, we are inadvertently creating karma. We must understand that our conduct is not merely a personal matter; it is an integral part of our spiritual cultivation.

Maintaining the Sanctity of the Buddha Hall

The Buddha hall is a place of profound stillness and reverence. It is a space where we come to purify our hearts and minds. Therefore, we must strictly observe the rule of silence within these walls. Please refrain from unnecessary speech. Even when the Dharma assembly has concluded and you are assisting with the organisation of the hall, please adhere to the following guidelines:

• If you must communicate with fellow practitioners or staff, please speak in a soft, gentle whisper.
• Plan your necessary communications in advance to avoid the need for sudden or loud exchanges.
• Maintain a calm heart; do not allow your mind to become agitated or fluctuate, as this internal disturbance will inevitably manifest in your voice and disrupt the serenity of those around you.
• Avoid calling out to others from across the room. If you need to reach someone, please find a way to convey your message quietly or ask someone nearby to assist you.

The Karmic Weight of Our Speech

When we raise our voices or call out loudly, we trigger a chain of negative consequences. Firstly, it causes our own minds to become agitated, which disrupts our internal concentration. Secondly, it disturbs the quiet practice of others, creating an obstacle to their spiritual progress. Unless you are a staff member whose duty is to correct or counsel others, it is best to observe the following:

• If you witness the improper conduct of others, look inward and reflect upon yourself to ensure you do not commit the same mistake.
• If you feel it is necessary, approach the staff with a kind heart and let them handle the situation.
• Always strive to keep your own heart still and pure, avoiding the temptation to judge or react with agitation.

Cultivating Awareness and Discipline

Even when discussing official temple business, please ensure that your volume is kept to the minimum level required for the two parties involved to hear one another. Always be mindful that your voice does not disturb others. This is a fundamental practice for maintaining the purity of the Buddha-land. It is a collective responsibility for all disciples to uphold this environment of peace. When we speak loudly or call out, we risk two things: the agitation of our own minds and the disruption of the purity of others, both of which lead to the creation of negative speech karma. You must be self-aware and constantly elevate your level of awareness. If you find yourself having thoughts or engaging in behaviours that violate the rules of the temple, you must stop immediately. The Dharma protectors of the temple are always observing our words and actions. Once the karmic cause is created, the karmic result will inevitably follow. Let us all strive to be mindful, keeping our speech and conduct in alignment with the Truth.

Namo Amituofo