The Power of Group Prostrations and Spiritual Purification

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

On the evening of Thursday, the students of Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre gathered before the Buddha for our group prostrations. Although we, as practitioners, may not yet be able to see the Buddha with our physical eyes, the beings in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss see us with absolute clarity. Namo Amituofo stands before the assembly, vast and majestic, offering His protection to every student present.

The Invisible Presence of the Buddha

As we prostrate, the Buddha-light gathers upon our bodies. It is not only we who receive this blessing; our karmic creditors—those spirits who have been bound to us by past grievances and suffering—receive the same benefit. The deep-seated resentment and the bitterness of past karmic debts are brought before the Buddha. As the Buddha-light descends, these spiritual obstacles suddenly enter the light and vanish like a phantom before our eyes, leaving no trace behind.

Dissolving the Shadows of the Past

The suffering that once clung to us so tightly, causing us endless distress, begins to fade. Through the act of bowing to the Buddha and performing prostrations, we actively dissolve karma. This is the most effective remedy for purification. It is a process of cleansing the heart, allowing the true nature to emerge from the shadows of our past actions.

The Necessity of Diligent Group Practice

Group prostration is a vital time for diligent practice. It is a collective effort that every student must participate in, without exception, unless one is occupied with essential duties or service in the kitchen. You must cherish this precious time. Do not let these moments pass by in distraction or indifference. When you approach the Buddha with a heart that is free from impurities and without any stain, your mind becomes truly pure.

The True Spirit of Prostration

When your heart is clear, your body and mind will naturally become light. Your appearance will reflect the dignity and auspicious characteristics of the Buddha. This is what it means to perform prostrations with a sincere heart. By maintaining this state of mind, you are truly walking the path of the Universal Principle, the Truth, and the Right Way.

Namo Amituofo