The Path of Removing: Teachings on Purification

Recorded by the disciple of the Buddha, Venerable HaiZe. On the 23rd of October, 2021, during the First Session of the Thrice Yearning Ceremony, Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju offered these profound teachings on the art of removing the obstacles that hinder our spiritual progress.

The Foundation of Awakening

To remove the false mind and deep-seated attachments, one must first cultivate a state of true awakening. To cast aside the turbulent emotions and the underlying anxiety that plague our daily lives, one must maintain a clear and sober mind. To overcome the states of mental dullness and restlessness, one must diligently remove the karmic obstacles that cloud our perception. Furthermore, to eliminate the Five Poisons—Greed, Anger, Ignorance, Arrogance, and Doubt—one must rely on the dual powers of compassion and the awakening of wisdom.

The Skillful Means of the Bodhi Path

How does one begin this journey of purification? It is through a structured approach to practice that we find our way:

• Reflecting upon one's actions and repenting for past mistakes.
• Engaging in deep introspection to understand one's true nature.
• Listening to the sutras and hearing the Dharma to nourish the spirit.
• Inviting spirits to join the Dharma assembly.
• Performing Chao Du to help beings leave suffering behind and find rebirth in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss.

These methods are the skillful means of the Bodhi path, designed to guide us toward liberation.

Mastering the Self

We must also address our latent habits and character traits. These habits are the source of the constant fluctuations in our minds; they are the manifestations of our inability to take charge of our own lives. When you possess true awareness and the boldness to act, you gain the ability to stop these negative cycles. This is the wisdom of practice.

The Radiance of Goodness

Finally, one must learn to remove the constant stream of wandering thoughts and mental chatter. By entering a state of selflessness and stillness, you will see the truth of reality. Do not allow yourself to think evil thoughts, dwell on wrong paths, or commit harmful acts, for these only invite the frequent manifestation of suffering karma. Instead, focus on the following:

• Think of Goodness, contemplate Goodness, and perform acts of Goodness.
• Speak well, think well, and look for the good in all things.

This is the diligent practice required to see your true self. Namo Amituofo.