The Sacred Duty of Protecting the Dharma

During the 2020 New Year Dharma Assembly, we gathered to purify our hearts and minds through the Thrice Yearning Ceremonies. In this third session, Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju offered essential guidance on the practice of protecting the Dharma, reminding us of our collective responsibility to sustain the light of wisdom in this world.

The Call to Awakening

After drifting through the cycle of rebirth for countless eons, you have finally encountered the brilliant light of the Buddha. This is a rare and precious opportunity that you must cherish above all else. You must follow this light closely and never let it slip from your grasp. The suffering of this world is like a vast, turbulent ocean of karma, pulling us deeper into confusion. It is only through the Buddha’s teachings that one can transcend the dust of the mundane world and achieve true liberation.

The Practicality of Protecting the Dharma

Protecting the Dharma is a collective effort that requires the participation of the entire fourfold community of disciples. If you have wealth, use it to support the vessel of the Dharma. Contribute to the construction of temples, the maintenance of facilities, and the provision of necessary equipment. Wherever the Dharma is being spread, you must ensure that a proper bodhimanda is prepared. Whether it is providing food, lodging, or transportation, offer your support in every way possible to ensure the smooth operation of the temple. By maintaining the bodhimanda, you ensure that the wheel of the Dharma continues to turn for the benefit of all beings.

The Merit of a Vast Mind

If you do not have wealth, offer your strength and your labour to assist in the work of the temple. Every act of service helps others achieve their spiritual achievements. When your mind-capacity is vast and inclusive, your spiritual achievements will flow smoothly. When you support the Dharma with a sincere heart, the Dharma assemblies can be completed perfectly, and your own capacity for wisdom and Blessings will increase significantly. Acts of merit performed without attachment are immeasurable, while acts of merit performed with a sincere heart will surely bring forth good karmic rewards.

The Path to the Western Pure Land

All these actions are part of the path to fulfilling the vows of the Dharma Treasury. Ultimately, these efforts serve to cultivate the lotus of your own soul, ensuring that you are safely guided to the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. By dedicating your life to the protection and propagation of the Dharma, you are walking the path of the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas. May you continue to chant Namo Amituofo with a steadfast heart, leaving suffering behind to find true happiness in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss.

Recorded by the Buddha's disciple, Venerable HaiZe.