The Perils of the Modern World

Teachings from Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju, recorded by Venerable HaiZe.

The world today is fraught with peril and deep-seated difficulties. This danger stems largely from the unchecked proliferation of computers, mobile devices, and various electronic products. These tools have fundamentally altered the landscape of human connection, stripping away the precious opportunities for direct, heart-to-heart interaction between individuals. Communication between people has become thin and superficial, far eclipsed by the cold exchange of data through hardware.

The Erosion of the Heart

People have grown accustomed to expressing their inner thoughts through machines rather than facing one another directly. Because of this, the human heart and spirit are deprived of the warmth and support that only genuine human presence can provide. Instead, we find ourselves surrounded by an atmosphere of rigidity, indifference, and profound anxiety. When one becomes addicted to the internet and digital games, they often neglect their basic needs, such as eating and sleeping. This behaviour harms the heart, the body, and disrupts the natural rhythm of life.

The Future of Our Youth

The impact on the younger generation is particularly alarming. Their future and the development of their mental state are matters of grave concern. We must ask ourselves: what kind of world are we leaving for them? When the mind is constantly tethered to a screen, it loses its ability to connect with the reality of the present moment. The constant pursuit of digital stimulation leaves the spirit hollow and disconnected from the truth.

The Path of Buddhist Education

This is why Buddhist education must be promoted widely. It serves as a vital remedy to help people shift their focus away from the endless pursuit of external desires. Many are currently lost, addicted to unreal, science-fiction worlds in a desperate attempt to find a sense of validation that is ultimately hollow. Buddhist education can help everyone in the following ways:

• Cultivate a heart of compassion, gratitude, and contentment: By turning inward, we learn to appreciate the simple blessings of life rather than chasing fleeting shadows.
• Understand the laws of karma and cause and effect: We must realise the suffering of being unable to take charge during birth, aging, sickness, and death, and how our actions shape our future.
• Recognise the preciousness of life: We learn to respect the lives of all beings while cherishing our own existence as a vessel for spiritual growth.

Returning to the True Self

By engaging with these teachings, one can realise that both oneself and all other beings possess the true self and Buddha-nature. This realisation allows one to begin the journey of learning the Buddha’s teachings, engaging in diligent practice, and looking inward to rediscover one's true self. This is the only true path to saving oneself and, by extension, saving others. May we all find the strength to turn away from the illusions of the world and return to the light of our original nature.

Namo Amituofo