The Transience of Life and the Path to Liberation

On the 7th of April 2019, during the Thrice Yearning Ceremony, Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju shared these profound teachings on the nature of our existence and the path to true liberation.

The Illusion of Worldly Glory

The road to the afterlife is a lonely and sorrowful journey. When the time comes to depart, no one can accompany you on this path. In this world, your home may be bustling with activity. You may travel in grand carriages, wear fine silks, and dine on exquisite foods. Your garden may be filled with blooming flowers, your children may laugh and play, and servants may attend to your every need. Yet, even if these worldly comforts remain, the master of the house has already departed.

The Inevitability of Departure

You have spent your entire life in a flurry of activity, but in your old age, you find yourself without the strength to move. Though your descendants may be filial, they cannot bear your physical pain for you. Eventually, you must bid farewell to this world. All your glory becomes a memory of the past. Your wealth and status are inherited by your descendants, while you must face the reality of death alone. Where will you go? You are bound by the cycle of the six realms of existence.

The Compassionate Call of Namo Amituofo

But take heart, for the compassion of the Buddha is here to guide you. The Buddha-light shines boundlessly, and the Buddha-name of Namo Amituofo resonates everywhere. If you are connected by karmic affinity, you will hear it. You must:

• Chant the great name of Namo Amituofo without delay.
• Let go of all worldly attachments.
• Follow the Buddha-light to the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss.
• Leave suffering behind and enter the Land of the Golden Lotus.

This message was recorded by the Buddha's disciple, Venerable HaiZe.

Namo Amituofo