A note before reading
This library is based on Master Shengyuan’s personal experiences and reflections on spiritual practice. They may not apply to everyone’s circumstances. It is important to distinguish everyday life from spiritual practice, and science from metaphysical beliefs. Use your own judgment and read with care. If you have questions, you are welcome to discuss them.
Your First Steps in Spiritual Practice
Follow the stages in order. Articles still awaiting English translation remain in the Chinese edition.
Stage 1 · Understand Spiritual Practice in Everyday Life
7 of 7 articles available in English
- What are we really cultivating through spiritual practice?
- Does spiritual practice require becoming a monastic, eating vegetarian food, or giving up family life?
- How can an ordinary person begin spiritual practice?
- How does practice in daily life differ from spiritual cultivation?
- Can we practice without advanced education or understanding profound scriptures?
- Can spiritual practice let me escape problems with work, family, and life?
- If I can live well without religion, why practise spiritually?
Stage 2 · Choosing a Teacher and Learning to Judge for Yourself
8 of 8 articles available in English
- How do I choose a spiritual teacher?
- Does having practiced for many years or being called a teacher necessarily mean greater ability?
- What should I do if I am told I will suffer for leaving a spiritual center?
- How does asking questions differ from 'You may not understand, but must not doubt'?
- Why must spiritual guidance vary by person rather than be applied universally?
- How does personal experience differ from knowledge on paper in spiritual practice?
- What is the difference between faith and superstition?
- Does a famous teacher with a long waiting list necessarily have the ability to help me?
Stage 3 · Put Understanding into Practice
8 of 8 articles available in English
- Why has my life not changed even though I understand many principles?
- If the deities help us, why do we still need to make an effort?
- What is the difference between making a spiritual vow and making a wish?
- Can a spiritual vow begin small and gradually become a great vow?
- How can I learn to adapt when things change?
- When a spiritual practitioner makes a mistake, should they admit it or make excuses?
- How can I accept my shortcomings and still change?
- How can a hundred-day exercise help sustain spiritual practice?
Stage 4 · Face Challenges and Review Your Direction
9 of 9 articles available in English
- Are spiritual challenges the deities deliberately making life difficult for me?
- How can I tell whether I am making progress in spiritual practice?
- Which matters more: spiritual powers or moral character?
- Does having spiritual perceptions mean someone is practicing well?
- Does strong spiritual sensitivity mean better practice?
- How can I avoid arrogance after developing spiritual perceptions?
- Why reconsider wanting spiritual powers to gain friends or make money?
- How does seeking personal liberation differ from extending practice to help others?
- Does a kind, positive person encountering disaster mean their energy is poor?