Recorded and transcribed by ’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe.
On this day, the twelfth of July, 2024, during the third session of the , Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju offered these profound teachings on the nature of our spiritual connections.
The Blossoming of Affinity
What is meant by the term Dharma affinity? It refers to the precious opportunity one has to encounter a temple, to study the Buddha’s teachings, and to immerse oneself in the wisdom of the enlightened ones. This connection may manifest in many ways:
Through the reading of sacred sutras and classic texts.
By listening to the profound words and recorded teachings of Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, and great masters of the Buddha’s gate.
Through the various forms of the Dharma Jewel that are available to us.
Even through the modern medium of the internet, which has become a widely accepted way for people to learn about the Buddha’s teachings and the Hsiang Kuang Buddhist Centre.
These encounters are not mere coincidences. They are the blossoming of a connection that we call Dharma affinity. It is the bridge that allows us to recognise the truth and begin our journey back to our original nature.
The Timing of Our
You may wonder, when does this Dharma affinity appear in one's life? It is not a fixed moment for everyone. Instead, it depends entirely upon the causes and conditions that each individual has cultivated in their past lives. Some may have planted these seeds long ago, while others are only just beginning to sow them now.
Once you have the good fortune to encounter a temple and begin your study of the Buddha’s teachings, the most important question is: have you experienced growth and realisation? It is vital that you come to a deep understanding of the suffering inherent in the cycle of rebirth and the six realms of existence. Without this realisation, we remain trapped in the cycle of samsara, drifting aimlessly through endless lifetimes of pain.
The Path to Liberation
The true purpose of our practice is to recognise the compassionate presence of Namo Amituofo and to make a sincere vow to be reborn in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. By doing so, you can leave the suffering of the six realms of rebirth behind in this very lifetime. You do not need to wait for a future existence to find liberation; the path is open to you right now.
This is the essence of the Pure Land Dharma Gate. It is a magnificent and supreme method that combines two powerful forces:
: Your own sincere practice and dedication to the path.
: The infinite, compassionate support of Namo Amituofo, which carries us toward realising one's true nature and attaining Buddhahood.
The Practice of the Pure Land
To walk this path effectively, you must commit yourself to a life of focused practice. This involves three essential pillars of your daily life:
Chanting the Holy Name: You must dedicate yourself to chanting the Holy Name "Namo Amituofo" with a focused and sincere heart.
Reciting the Sutras: You should make a habit of reciting the sutras, which contain the complete teachings of the Buddha.
Making the Vow: You must firmly resolve to be reborn in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss.
These actions constitute your vow and your practice for this life. They determine not only the quality of your current existence but also the destination of your spirit after the physical body passes away.
A Rare and Precious Opportunity
To be able to enter the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in this lifetime, to recognise the infinite of Namo Amituofo, and to understand the beauty of the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss is a rare blessing. It provides you with the genuine opportunity to attain liberation, to leave suffering behind, and to secure your rebirth in the Western Pure Land.
This is something that countless beings have dreamt of and longed for throughout their many lifetimes. To have this opportunity today is truly a rare and precious spiritual connection. Cherish it, practise it, and let it guide you home.
