When Sickness Comes: A Path to Liberation

Teachings from Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju, recorded by the chief writer, Venerable HaiZe.

May 22, 2022

My dear children in the Dharma,

Have you noticed that certain illnesses from your past have resurfaced in your life today? These are what we call chronic illnesses rooted in your past lives. You must understand that every effect you experience in this present moment has a corresponding cause from your past. Since the cause has already been planted, the fruit has now manifested.

The Path to True Resolution

When you face such suffering, the most essential methods for relief are to hear the Dharma and understand the truth of cause and effect, to resolve the conflict with those you have harmed in the past, and to perform Chao Du to help your karmic creditors find peace.

However, if you wish to resolve the root of your suffering, you must go deeper. You must adjust your heart, transform your mind, and change your personality traits. This is the only way to achieve a fundamental resolution.

Facing Karmic Creditors with Grace

When you are repenting for the mistakes of your past, you may find that your karmic creditors have gathered to seek balance. The resulting physical pain can be truly difficult to bear. Yet, you must accept this suffering directly without resentment. Instead of complaining, you should use this time to diligently chant Namo Amituofo. You must hold tightly to the Buddha-name, for it is your greatest protection.

The Final Refuge in Namo Amituofo

When you are in the midst of severe illness or facing the approach of death, you must remember one thing above all else: keep your mind focused on chanting Namo Amituofo and vow to be reborn in the Western Pure Land. Do not be led away by the appearance of your karmic creditors or the pull of your physical pain. If you follow them, you will fall back into the six realms of existence. If that happens, when will you ever have the chance to enter the Western Pure Land again?

If your illness heals, be grateful for the Buddha's protection and continue to chant Namo Amituofo with even greater diligence. Dedicate the remainder of your life to spreading the Buddha-name and the teachings of the Pure Land, so that you may fulfill your wish to be reborn in the Western Pure Land.

Namo Amituofo