The Interplay of Manifest and Hidden States

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

September 1, 2023.

The Space We Inhabit

We live our lives within a space where manifest and hidden states constantly intersect. In this vast and complex environment, it is the mind that takes charge. The condition of your heart and the direction in which it leans will ultimately form the trajectory of your entire life. As you exist within this space, your mind is continuously pulled by the forces of karmic rebirth, causing different states to emerge—sometimes clearly visible, and sometimes hidden deep within.

The Duality of the Mind

Depending on your focus, your mind may manifest positive qualities that allow you to take charge of your spiritual journey. These qualities are reflections of your indestructible true self:

• Compassion: A heart that seeks to alleviate the suffering of all beings.
• Confidence: A firm belief in your own potential for awakening.
• Joy: A serene happiness that arises from the practice.
• Gratitude: A deep appreciation for the teachings and the support of the Buddha.
• Tolerance: The ability to embrace all beings and situations with an open heart.
• Wisdom: The clear insight that cuts through confusion.
• Purity: A mind free from the stains of attachment.
• Liberation and Freedom: The state of being unhindered by the burdens of the past.

Conversely, the mind may manifest negative states that make it difficult for you to remain the master of your own life. These are the Five Poisons and the Five Desires, which cloud our original nature:

• The Five Poisons: Greed, anger, ignorance, arrogance, and doubt.
• The Five Desires: Attachment to wealth, sex, fame, food, and sleep.

The Indestructible True Self

It is crucial to understand that regardless of whether your mind is currently manifesting positive or negative states, your true self remains independent and untouched. It is never truly harmed or tainted by these passing conditions. Even when you are caught in the grip of the Five Poisons, your true self remains pure and indestructible, waiting for you to return to it. This is why the practice of chanting Namo Amituofo is so vital; it helps you peel away the layers of confusion to reveal the light that has always been within you.

The Power of the Twelve Buddha-lights

The manifestation of the Twelve Buddha-lights in your life—whether they appear as a powerful force or remain hidden—depends entirely on the state of your mind. You must observe whether your heart is in sync with these lights. When your mind is in harmony with the Buddha, the power of the Twelve Buddha-lights can manifest fully to support you:

• Infinite and Boundless: A heart that knows no limits.
• Unobstructed and Equal: A mind that sees all beings as one.
• Wisdom and Constant Illumination: The light that never fades.
• Purity, Liberation, and Stability: The peace that comes from true awakening.

When you achieve this alignment, the Twelve Buddha-lights can exert their full power to assist you in every aspect of your practice. Practitioner Su is a prime example of one whose heart is perfectly in sync with the Buddha-lights; he is a master at utilising this light for the benefit of all beings. You should take his example to heart and learn from his dedication.

However, if your heart is not in sync with the Twelve Buddha-lights, it becomes difficult for that divine power to manifest, and the assistance you receive will be limited. Therefore, strive to keep your mind pure, focused, and aligned with the teachings of Namo Amituofo.

Namo Amituofo