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The Aura of Wisdom
- Book 154:The Aura of Wisdom
- Chapter 04: Manifestations
- Written by Sheng-yen Lu
- Translated and edited by True Buddha Foundation
- Translation Team (Cheng Yew Chung, Victor Hazen, Dance Smith)
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In the past, I had approached the Golden Mother of the Jade Pond with this question, `What is a manifestation?`
The Golden Mother replied, `Straw-head deities.` What this definition means is that manifestations are as numerous as the blades of grass that spread over the vast earth. Thus, the celestial deities have given a nickname to these manifestations: `straw-head deities`.
For example:
`Homage to the 36 trillion, 119 thousand and 500 Amitabha Buddhas.`
`The trillions of manifestations of Vairocana Buddha.`
`Buddha Locana manifested in six hundred thousand kotis of nayutas of yojanas multiplied by the number of the grains of sand of the Ganges.`
Even Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva manifests thirty two forms, and each manifested form in turn manifests infinite bodies. Thus such manifestations are infinite in number. This is in accordance with the law of the universe, and also is due to the power of transformation.
To my knowledge, the manifestations of Padmakumara are infinite in number. Among the disciples of the True Buddha School are many manifestations of Padmakumara. I am among the ranks, and you can say I am among the first to gain enlightenment. I am, thus, the enlightened straw-head deity of Padmakumara.
I have identified many manifestations of the Golden Mother of the Jade Pond, including Master Lian Tzi. Master Lian Hua Cun-lian, Lian Hua You-zheng, Lian Hua Su-ming and so forth.
I personally feel that the manifestations of the respective deities are indeed superior. However, these manifestations cover the land like grass just like the moon mirrors itself in water. The Pure Buddha Lands are manifested, as are the manifestations.
When you know you are a divisional spirit, it is important that you tread carefully and follow the right Dharma, upholding the right view and maintaining right thoughts. You should cultivate properly and propagate the Dharma with your heart. You must recognize the truth that a divisional spirit is only an illusory body like a bubble, and should you be trapped in material defilement, you shall be drawn into the six realms of transmigration!
Straw-head deity! Should you be tainted and fall from grace, once burned, you shall be forever lost without leaving a trace behind!
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