Deities and Faith
What is Sheng Zhen Men, and how does it differ from traditional temples?
English translation draft · Based on the Chinese article. This is not a word-for-word translation approved by Master Shengyuan.
Sheng Zhen Men is a group with divine faith that also values cultivating the mind and spiritual learning. People can worship and seek religious help. Further learning includes group practice and arrangements for members and students. I hope people gradually understand themselves and apply learning in life, beyond asking help only in trouble.
Practice begins with greater ease in body, mind and spirit, correcting thoughts and willingly acting. Face feelings honestly and gradually develop ability alongside a wish to help. Membership and status do not remove the need for personal adjustment.
Our approach can be understood through ‘Three Purities as discipline, Kṣitigarbha as action.’ The first reminds us of purity in body, mind and spirit: reduce bodily harm, earn honestly and face jealousy, worries and pressure. The second learns great aspirations and perseverance, turning wishes into action.
To explain differences, I describe our methods rather than portray all temples identically. Reverence and continued learning connect here. Chess divination, mind cultivation and movement help understand encounters. Distinctive methods still matter through real learning, not competition over miracles.
Learn before choosing participation. Members and students have differing commitments, and everyone need not immediately reach one stage. Understand what you believe and learn and how to arrange life, then choose a suitable way.