The Path of Diligent Practice

The Heart of Repentance

Why do we engage in the diligent practice of prostrations? We do so to repent for the karma accumulated throughout our past lives. Today, with a sincere heart, we must face our past actions. Before the Buddha, we perform prostrations and offer our deepest repentance. We also extend this repentance to our karmic creditors, acknowledging the harm caused in the past and seeking to resolve the conflict.

When you perform prostrations, you must do so without wandering thoughts. Do not let your mind drift to other matters; instead, keep your focus entirely on the Buddha. This is the most effective way to practise. If you find yourself becoming drowsy or distracted, diligent prostrations will help you return to a state of balance and clarity.

The Continuous Flow of Chanting

Diligent chanting of the Buddha-name should not be limited by time or place. It must arise from within your heart. You should strive to keep the chanting continuous, ensuring that each thought follows the next without interruption. Practise this 24/7, maintaining a steady, flowing stream of the Buddha-name in your mind. This devotion is more beautiful and profound than any worldly performance.

When your heart is filled with the Buddha, the light of wisdom will naturally arise. This inner light has the power to illuminate the darkness of ten thousand miles. As a practitioner, you must cultivate a spirit of no-self, dedicating your practice entirely to the benefit of all beings.

Transforming the Ego and Habits

The "self," personal ego, and selfishness that you carry are not the result of a single day or two; they have been accumulated over countless lifetimes. These traits have led to the creation of immense karma and many past mistakes. You must change these personality traits quickly to avoid creating new karma. Do not allow these negative tendencies to manifest in your daily life. Instead, maintain your awareness and keep the Buddha-name flowing continuously.

When you sincerely work to change your personality traits and habits, you will move your karmic creditors to resolve their grievances. Only then is it possible to transform your karma. Becoming the master of your own life and reaching the state of an awakened being is not a distant goal if you are truly diligent.

The Path to Awakening

If you allow yourself to be led by your ego and habits, you will lose the ability to master your own life. You will remain under the influence of your karmic creditors and continue to be reincarnated in the cycle of suffering, which has no end. Therefore, you must be diligent and compassionate, working to save yourself and all beings. By achieving the state of an awakened being, you repay the Buddha's kindness. Together, we shall all journey to the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss and attain the Buddha's path.

This message was recorded by the Buddha's disciple, Venerable HaiZe.

Namo Amituofo