The Path to Awakening: Teachings from Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju

The Winding Path of Reincarnation

The path of the world where we are reincarnated is long, winding, and filled with obstacles. Because our hearts remain closed, we wander in confusion, struggling to find an exit from this cycle. Day after day, we pass our time in sorrow and worry. Life gradually fades away, and we are left to face the inevitable suffering of Aging, sickness, and death. In this state, we find it difficult to master our own destiny, feeling trapped by the weight of our own existence.

The Challenge of True Practice

Even when we hold the Buddha-name in our daily lives, we often find that our practice is incomplete. We may chant with our mouths, yet our hearts remain restless and disturbed. This occurs because the "self," personal ego, and selfishness still hold sway over us, and our past karma continues to manifest in our lives. If you truly wish to find the path home, you must look deeper.

The Light of the Three Jewels

The Fragrant Light of the Three Jewels—the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha—is here to guide you. When this light shines forth, the glory of the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss is proclaimed. This is the ground of Awakening, a place where your heart can finally find true refuge. The path to the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss is right before your eyes, yet it is not easy to encounter such a precious opportunity. Do not turn back to the old ways of confusion. You must engage in diligent practice with unwavering focus.

Expanding the Mind-Capacity

Move forward with courage and determination. The Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss is infinite, and your mind-capacity must expand to match its vastness. As you let go of your attachments and purify your heart, you will find that the path becomes clear. This teaching was recorded by the Buddha's disciple, Venerable HaiZe.

Namo Amituofo