The Significance of the Present Moment

Teachings from Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju, recorded and transcribed by Namo Amituofo’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe.

During the second session of the Thrice Yearning Ceremony held on the 22nd of March 2024, Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju provided essential guidance on the nature of our practice and the importance of the present moment.

The Preciousness of the Unfolding Now

The present moment is the most vital aspect of your life. Whatever has occurred in the past has faded away; it is gone and can never be retrieved. Similarly, the future remains unknown, and there is no need to dwell upon it. The present moment is truly priceless. Once it passes, it cannot be bought back. Therefore, you must learn to grasp the present moment, for that is the only place where your life truly unfolds.

Diligence in the Pure Land Path

When you engage in your practice, you must be diligent and avoid any form of distraction. Delusions and improper actions are merely obstacles that hinder your progress. The temple serves the public, and every moment spent in service is an opportunity to be fully present. When you chant Namo Amituofo, you must do so with a focused and direct heart. Ensure that every single word and phrase is chanted with absolute clarity. By performing your current tasks well, you are making genuine progress. Simply do what needs to be done with a clear mind, free from unnecessary worries or wandering thoughts.

Cleansing the Heart of Poisons

In the present moment, you must be vigilant against the poisons that cloud your true nature:

• Greed:
• Do not let greed for wealth, physical pleasure, fame, food, or sleep take root in your heart.Anger:
• Do not allow the fire of anger to burn within you. This fire consumes the forest of your merits and virtues, and it is a path that leads directly to the hells, which is truly not worth the cost.Ignorance:
• Do not let ignorance and confusion dominate your mind. Such states lead one into the realm of animals, and it is incredibly difficult to find a way out once you have fallen into that cycle.Arrogance:
• Do not harbour an arrogant heart. Arrogance makes it difficult to receive the benefits of the Dharma, as it causes others to distance themselves from you and creates a barrier to true learning.Doubt: Do not allow doubt to take hold. Doubt acts as a heavy obstacle that prevents the Dharma from entering your heart, making it nearly impossible to achieve success in your Buddha-recitation practice.

The Direct Path to Ultimate Bliss

In the present moment, there is nothing better than chanting Namo Amituofo. When you chant with a sincere heart, you will find yourself free from fear, worry, and anxiety. By remaining grounded and finding joy in the Dharma, you will eventually see your true nature. Continue to chant Namo Amituofo with a steady heart, and you will walk the direct path toward the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. Namo Amituofo.