Ven. Shangwu Xiaxing's Visit to Maitreya Village

Ven. Shangwu Xiaxing's Visit to Maitreya Village in North America: Discourse on Buddhism and Diligent Recitation of Buddha

Respected Venerable Shangwu Xiaxing arrived at Maitreya Village in North America on the morning of June 13, 2023. This marks the first return to various Pure Land Buddhist associations in the United States after the pandemic. Venerable Shangwu Xiaxing's arrival was warmly welcomed by the monastics and devotees of Maitreya Village, followed by a grand welcoming ceremony.

Subsequently, Venerable Xiaxing delivered a profound discourse in the main hall, lasting nearly two hours. During the discourse, he imparted Buddhist teachings, offered inspiration, and shared insights from his own practice. Additionally, he shared wisdom stories and practical life advice with the audience.

   Venerable Xiaxing earnestly hopes that everyone 'dedicates themselves diligently at Maitreya Village, seizes this rare and precious opportunity, genuinely recites Buddha here, and can attain rebirth in the Pure Land, achieving Buddhahood in one lifetime! This Dharma center can be considered an exceptionally rare and valuable place worldwide; such a favorable environment should be cherished and the opportunity seized with great care! The primary goal of Maitreya Village is to enable everyone to recite Buddha here with peace of mind and eventually attain Buddhahood.'

Following that, Venerable Xiaxing, along with representatives of the monastics, the management committee, and representatives of the community, shared a midday meal. Together, they discussed Buddhism, the challenges, and opportunities faced by Maitreya Village. This exchange provided an opportunity for the community to be close to the venerable, share in the joy of the Dharma, deepen their understanding of the wisdom of Buddhism, and enhance connections and mutual understanding.

    After the midday meal, Venerable Xiaxing led the congregation in a solemn Buddha hall for collective practice, reciting Buddha for the duration of an incense stick. The purpose of this collective practice was to cultivate a serene state of mind, allowing everyone to personally experience the power of Buddhism. The process of reciting Buddha helped participants feel the inner tranquility and peace. Under the guidance of Venerable Xiaxing and seven other monastics from Maitreya Village, the collective practice was extremely dignified. Venerable Xiaxing's Dharma bell aided everyone in concentrating on the Buddha's name, and each participant was filled with joy and Dharma bliss.

    The day passed quickly, and after the collective practice, everyone eagerly took photos with Venerable Xiaxing to capture this precious time. People bid farewell to the venerable with reluctance, earnestly requesting the opportunity for him to return to Maitreya Village to lead the Three O'Clock Recitation. During the farewell, Venerable Xiaxing expressed gratitude for the warm reception at North American Maitreya Village and conveyed blessings to the community for their dedication to the path of practice. He encouraged the practitioners to persevere in their spiritual journey, diligently follow the teachings of Buddhism, and strive to enhance their wisdom and compassion. The venerable wished for the well-being of both society and the world through their efforts.

Believing that Venerable Xiaxing's visit will inspire more followers to strengthen their resolve on the path and cultivate greater blessings and wisdom. May the light of Buddhism continue to shine brightly in Maitreya Village forever.