The Path of Stillness and Purity

The Essence of Stillness and Purity

Namo Amituofo offers these profound teachings during the First Session of the Thrice Yearning Ceremony, guiding us toward the true meaning of stillness and purity. To be still means that your heart is free from worry, free from agitation, and free from anxiety. When you reach this state, your countenance naturally becomes peaceful and serene. To be pure means that your heart is free from defilement, free from turbidity, and free from filth. When your heart is pure, your countenance is clear and free from any chaotic elements.

When you achieve both stillness and purity, your spirit becomes stable, and your heart ceases to fluctuate. Your body feels light and clear, and you will find that your Six Roots are purified. In this state, chanting Namo Amituofo becomes effortless, and it is easy for your heart to sync with the Buddha-heart. This is the natural state of a practitioner who has returned to their original nature.

The Dangers of Restlessness and Turbidity

Conversely, we must be aware of the states that hinder our progress. Restlessness is characterised by a heart that is annoyed, stifled, filled with doubt, and lacking in equanimity. When you are restless, you are prone to anger, and your face will reflect this inner resentment. Turbidity is characterised by a heart that is stained, selfish, and impure. When you are in a state of turbidity, your face will appear clouded and cluttered.

These states of restlessness and turbidity have severe consequences for your spiritual life:

• Your spirit becomes unsettled and anxious.
• Your heart experiences constant, volatile fluctuations.
• Your Six Roots become clouded and impure, preventing you from seeing the truth.

The Practitioner's Journey

As a practitioner, you must work diligently to transform your karma and break through the obstacles created by your past actions. You must strive to reach a state of stillness and purity, achieving the Three Learnings of Precepts, Samadhi, and Wisdom. When your heart is no longer subject to volatile fluctuations, you can truly embrace the state of no-self. Only through no-self can you become truly selfless and work for the benefit of all beings.

You must not be led by your desires. When you are free from the pull of desires, you will attain a clear and bright countenance. By entering the state of no-thought, no-mind, and an empty heart, you will enter the ranks of those who have become an awakened being. From this position, you can effectively save the world and lead infinite suffering beings to the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. Everything requires diligent practice and a sincere effort to change the "self," personal ego, and selfishness. Only then can you achieve success on this path.

Namo Amituofo