The Path of Selfless Dedication

These teachings were recorded by the chief writer, Venerable HaiZe, during the Thrice Yearning Ceremony held on the eighth of January, 2023. In this session, Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju offers vital guidance on the nature of the self and the necessity of selfless service in our spiritual journey.

The Heavy Chains of Selfishness

When one is trapped in selfishness, one clings to the concept of the self with a desperate and unyielding grip. This state of mind manifests in many ways that hinder our spiritual progress:

• One is constantly preoccupied with the needs and desires of one's own body.
• One is fixated on one's own feelings and perceptions, prioritising them above all else.
• One is driven by a constant, fearful need to protect oneself from any perceived harm or discomfort.
• One desires to possess more and more, never feeling satisfied or content with what one has.
• One constantly questions the value of service, asking, "Why must I suffer this?" or "Why should I do this?"
• One thinks only of one's own convenience, failing to consider the needs of the community or the collective group.

This self-centredness acts as a heavy veil, obscuring our true nature and preventing us from experiencing the freedom that comes with letting go of the ego.

The Radiance of Selfless Dedication

In contrast, the compassionate heart is defined by the spirit of selfless dedication. It is the willingness to use less so that others may have enough. It is the courage to endure personal hardship so that other beings may be saved from their suffering. This is not something a selfish person can achieve; it is the natural expression of a heart that has truly let go of the ego.

When we act with a selfless heart, we are performing an act of pure devotion. We serve others without complaint, not because we are forced to, but because we understand that our lives are interconnected. This is the hallmark of a compassionate heart and the foundation of a life dedicated to the benefit of all.

Service as a Spiritual Vow

To serve others without seeking reward is to walk the path of the Bodhisattva. We serve with the sole, sincere wish that all beings may find peace in their practice, that their skills may flourish, and that they may eventually help even more beings to leave suffering behind and find true happiness. By assisting others in their journey of purification, we are also refining our own hearts.

The Purity of the Six Roots

For the practitioner who is diligent in their practice, the world is transformed through the purification of the Six Roots. This state of being is characterised by a profound clarity:

• One does not see impure or unwholesome sights.
• One does not listen to impure or unwholesome words.
• One does not smell or taste that which is unwholesome.
• One does not speak or act in ways that are impure.
• One does not allow unwholesome thoughts to take root in the mind.

When the Six Roots are purified, our original nature is revealed, and our innate wisdom begins to shine forth. This is the ultimate expression of a compassionate heart and the true meaning of selfless dedication. My dear disciples, you must strive to live in this way!

Namo Amituofo