The Resonance of the True Self

The True Nature of Buddha’s Teachings

It is essential to understand that the Buddha’s teachings are not a religion in the conventional sense. Rather, they are a form of profound Buddhist education. This education serves to reveal the truth of our existence and the reality of the universe. Every sentient being possesses an original nature—a true self that is synonymous with the Buddha-nature. This nature is not lost; it is merely obscured by the dust of our attachments. Through diligent practice and the purification of our body, heart, and spirit, we can rediscover this original, luminous state.

The purpose of this Buddhist education is to help you awaken from the dream of worldly existence. Too often, we remain lost in illusions, drifting far from our true self and suffering in the cycle of rebirth. When you finally realise that the world is like a dream or a phantom, you begin to see the Truth. You will understand that the true self is not found in the external world, nor in the fleeting images of our dreams, but deep within your own heart.

The Meaning of Knowing the Sound

To find a true companion who understands your heart, your actions, and your vows is a rare and precious occurrence. In the context of our practice, this is what we call knowing the sound. When you truly understand the Buddha-heart, the Buddha-actions, and the Buddha-vows, you become a true companion of the Buddha. Conversely, because the Buddha understands the hearts, actions, and vows of all beings, the Buddha is the true companion of all beings.

Those who have recovered their true self are those who have realised their true nature. The cadence of the sound is performed within meditative concentration, and even within the state of no-mind.

The Stillness Within the Sound

The Buddha knows the nuances of every sound you make in your practice. Whether the sound is high or low, whether it rises with enthusiasm or falls into a quiet, hidden state, the Buddha hears it all. High notes have their flavour, low notes have their resonance; rising notes have their enthusiasm, and falling notes have their subtlety. All are performed within meditative concentration and the state of no-mind.

Because the Buddha is your true companion, He understands the intent behind every sound you make. When you chant Namo Amituofo for the sake of all beings, the Buddha will surely bestow His blessings upon you. He will ensure that those who hear your voice can develop faith, gain clarity, and protect the Dharma. He will ensure that your path of practice, though challenging, remains steady and supported.

A Call to Diligent Practice

On this journey between the human world and the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, I hope to see practitioners everywhere. I hope that in every corner of the world, there are those who are dedicated to the path of awakening. I urge you to engage in diligent practice. By chanting Namo Amituofo and making the sincere vow to save yourself and all beings, you will achieve rebirth in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss.

Let us walk this path together, with a heart that is clear, a mind that is focused, and a spirit that is committed to the ultimate goal of returning to the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. Namo Amituofo.

Recorded and transcribed by Namo Amituofo’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe.