先　天　大　道　簡　介

一、何謂先天大道？

二、道與我有什麼關係？

三、求道是求什麼？

四、求道對我有什麼好處？

五、具備什麼條件才可以求道？

六、求道對我的生活有什麼影響？

七、道的寶貴有什麼印證？

一、何謂先天大道？

〔先天大道〕又簡稱〔道〕。我們若仔細的去觀察，心竅開悟之後，就可發覺宇宙間森羅萬象皆是雜而有序，而自然界萬事萬物的運轉，也都有一定的法則。這個天、地、人、事萬物的真主宰，就是〔道〕。道乃在天、地生成之前即已存在，故曰：〔先天大道〕。

道者理也，理就是真理。在天、地、人、萬物未生以前，道即已存在，而道能生天、生地、生人、生萬物萬類。在天、地、人、萬物毀滅之後，道不會毀滅。道因為無去無來，不生不滅，乃代表著宇宙間亙古不變的真理。

道的本體，也就是宇宙自然的本體。在混沌未判之初，宇宙間只是一團靈妙理，無天、無地、無人，也沒有語言和文字，所以我們實無法以任何語言、文字或思慮來形容他。故大道無名、強名曰道，我們也是勉強用〔道〕這個名詞來代表它。

在天、地、萬物生成之後，道又能貫穿於宇宙萬事萬物之中，使一切的自然現象均能呈現和諧、有條不紊的運轉，這就是道的妙用。

道大理微，我們雖然無時無刻離不開道的本體和妙用，卻又很不容易去認識他。因此在兩、三千年前，各教聖人應運出世，各化一方，針對當時天時、地利及眾生的根器，留下千經萬典，傳下諸多去惡從善的修持法門。同時，也讓芸芸眾生認識了冥冥中，宇宙萬事萬物均有一個真正的主宰，或稱為〔上帝〕，或稱為〔造化〕，或稱為〔天主〕。我們稱其為〔道〕或〔無生老 ，均是異名而同義。

我們對道有了深一層的認識和體悟之後，就會了解，天地間實無一物不是道之本體與妙用的合一。

因此，道雖然涵蓋各大教門的精義，為千門萬教的總源頭，卻實不侷限於宗教的領域裡。而〔上帝〕或〔老 〕也不只代表著一切宗教的最高信仰中心，更是天地萬事萬物萬類的根本源頭與最高主宰，及宇宙間永恆不變的真理至道。

所以我們今天有機會了解什麼是〔先天大道〕，不只找到了各大教門的最高信仰中心，也找到了宇宙的根本源頭與最高主宰，更能對宇宙至高無上的真理有一個初步的認識。

〔道〕之真義，在先天之先不為先，在後天之後不為後。極大尚有可量，極微尚有可指；惟〔道〕極大不可量，極微不可指。故所以大無不包、微無不入、無所不貫、無所不通、無所不徹，貫徹了天、地、人、萬物萬類，貫徹了三十三天外，貫徹了千經萬典，貫徹了千法萬法，貫徹了千教萬教，貫徹了千佛萬祖，貫徹了我之一身。此乃筅天大道寶貴的真義，人人必須知真覺，亦即是人人與我、我與人人良心之行也，此乃萬眾一心，萬國一家、世界大同，此先天大道之寶貴也。

二、道與我有什麼關係？

道的寶貴，在於他大而無所不包，細而無所不入。天、地生成之後，道貫穿於天、地、萬物萬類，使得日、月、星辰之運轉，各有其時；四時之交替、萬物之消長，各有其序。而最寶貴的是，這個天、地、萬物的主宰，同時也是我們人一身之主宰，曰〔性理〕，使得我們不學而能看、能聽、能吃、能動。因此，我們不只要探求天地間的至理，更要回頭認識我們身上固有的真理。故〔先天大道〕即是〔性理真傳〕。

道的寶貴，並不在於他有什麼神秘、稀有或特殊之處，而是在於他平實，但我們卻時時刻刻離不開他的本體與妙用。

我們反觀一下自身，就會發覺我們身體的結構是非常精密和奧妙的。我們輕輕的握一下手，就算是這麼簡單的一個動作，其中所牽涉到的所有關節物理作用、能量化學反應、神經系統資料訊息之傳輸，及腦部分析、判斷、和命令之下達，以目前全世界的科技知識和文明水準，也無法一一表達出來。但是我們作出個動作的能力，卻完全不因個人知道上了程度的差異，而有任何影響。不論是學識多豐富的學者，或是目不識丁販夫走卒；不論是成人，或是剛出生不久的嬰兒，都可以輕而易舉的作出這個動作。人人與生俱來，不學而知，不學而能，無增無減的良知良能，就是主宰我們一身的〔道〕。

我們由學習而得到的知識和才能，有忘記的時候，有疏遠的時候；而道的本體和妙用，不用學習，不用思考，大而能主宰宇宙的運作消長，小而能主宰我們一身之視聽言動。我們有而不知其有，用而不知其用，卻又無時無刻不能缺少他。這個不增不減，本自俱足一切，我們身上固有的〔道〕，因為就在我們身上，又稱作〔自性老 〕。

我們了解了這個主宰天、地、萬物的〔道〕，在我們身上就有，他的作用不因受到我們讚美或否認而有任何增減，不論種族、膚色、國籍、宗教信仰、或貧賤富貴，均無分無別。

因此，我們能求得〔先天大道〕，不只找到了宇宙的根本源頭，也找到了不生不滅的真我；不只認識了宇宙，也認識了我一身的真正主宰；不只追求到了宇宙之至理，也找回了我身上本有的真理與良知良能。

〔先天大道〕的根源是在我身上原來固有的、是我由先天帶來的良知良能，即是我的良心。我的良心即是天心，天心即是道心，此心無形無相，即是真空；真空之妙，空而不空，空中妙有；〔妙有者〕，生天、生地、生人、生萬物萬類之大本也；〔妙用者〕，萬靈真宰也，主宰天、地、人、萬物萬類之真主宰，亦即是主宰我之一身。故曰道在吾身，一切萬能；道離吾身，此身百無一能。先天大道如此寶貴，乃人人必須追求之道也。

三、求道是求什麼？

靜心觀察我們所存在的這個宇宙，我們往往會讚造物主的神奇。自然界每一刻皆有無數的事、物在同時運轉，而其整體卻又是那麼協調。我們身上的這個真理不也是一樣嗎？每一分一秒，我們身上皆有無數的生化反應、物理作用……等同時發生，道的妙用分佈在我們身上，不用學習，不用思考，其作用雖成千上萬，合起來卻只有一個自我，一切有條不紊，自然而成。道在吾身，運用自如，在眼能視，在耳能聽，在口能言，在鼻能聞香臭，在身能運用行動作事，此即道在我身之妙用。

所以我們了解了〔道〕不只主宰著天、地、萬物，更主宰我們一身。宇宙根本源頭最高主宰與我一身主宰，並非二也。道的本體無形無相，我們肉眼看不到他，手也摸不到他，但他卻無時無刻不在發揮其妙用，更進而隨著天時及環境而發展出語言、文字、經典、及造福人類的文明，此即是我們良知良能之作用。

一般人不了解道在於我們自身的本體和妙用，只模糊意識到他的存在，便以〔靈魂〕代表他，我們稱其為〔自性老 〕。因其沒有生滅，也不會毀壞，我們也稱其為〔真我〕，此真我乃是最富足、最圓滿、最光明、最完美、永恆不朽的。

現在我們來生一看，看得見、摸得著、有形有相的肉體，能不能代表我？把一個人生命中不同階段的照片拿來比較，我們就可發覺，面貌是無時無刻不在變化的；我們一般均習慣以相貌認人，但相貌卻不是永恆的。我們的肢體也不是真我，某些人不幸失去了一隻手或一隻腳，仍是好好的活著。我們的內臟呢？現在科學昌明，其至己能把動物的心臟成功地植入人體，我們不能因此說這個人不是他自己了。就算頭的腦細胞，從我們一出生就開始不斷的在壞死、減少、和變化之。因此，有形有相的肉體，只是〔真我〕的一個工具而已。肉體雖然看似真實，卻無時無刻不在改變之中，不須數十年，又變成一堆黃土。因它不是永恆的，我們稱之為〔假我〕。

對於真我和假我有所了解之後，我們也就可以了解，我們為什麼要求道了。如今我們非常幸運能有機會求得〔先天大道〕，求得的就是〔三寶〕。三寶簡單明瞭，但也博大精深，其內容在求道時會詳細解說。現在只簡單的提出兩點：

首先，求道就是直接點出了真正永恆不朽的真我，也就是良心本性的啓發。在物質文明遠較精神文明昌盛的今日，假若迷失真我，我們的人生將有如行屍走肉；若是認假為真，更使我們為了盲目滿足假我而作出害己害人的事情，造成自己在世時與死後的災禍。因此，求道啟發了我們內在本的真我良心，真我、假我協調融合，使我們的人生不論存歿，都是平安、喜樂、自在、充實而有意義。

其次，求道也就是開啟了我們身上的正門，又稱良心之門、智慧之門、慈悲之門。這個門非常的重要，當我們要離開一間房子時，自然由大門離去；如果此門無法開啟，而被迫從窗戶或陽台跳出時，就可能會摔斷腿。我們的肉體就像一間房子，真我靈性就像是房子的主人，當有一天肉體要毀壞時，真我靈性若不得正門而出，被迫另尋旁門，其恐懼與焦慮是無法形容的，這也導致了死後的痛苦與不安。因此，我們可以發現到，絕大多數的人臨終時，其肉體皆顯現山僵硬、恐懼、無助，與掙扎之相。求道，就是開啟我們這個生來死去之正門，也就是通天大路。

因此，我們今天很幸運能求道，求得三寶，打開靈性通天之正門，可以讓我們找回真我，認識我自己身上的道，自然以良心作為待人物之準則，使人生更有意義，更進而解決生死大事，得到超生了死的保障，百年之後，回到我們本來故家鄉。所以〔先天大道〕又是〔回天之道〕。　

先天大道之寶貴，即是千經萬典不如一點⊙，此點⊙打開玄關正門、佛門，天堂大路一步直超，即得永生之道。此點⊙寶貴，超佛越祖、超經越典、超越天地。得道這一點⊙寶貴，他是諸經之師、諸法之王、諸佛之 、天地之 ，故曰超生了死即得永生，不毀不滅之先天大道也，此乃即是人人原來固有的，必須返回天之道也。

四、求道對我有什麼好處？

我們今天很高興能有這個機緣求道，能夠開啟良心之門、智慧之門、通天之正門，這是第一步。這個寶貴的道還能帶給我們終生受用不盡的福祉：

（一）　離苦得樂：

人生在世，遭受種種之苦惱，究其根源，皆起因於迷失了真我；求道首先就是讓我們認識人人身上固有的道，找回我們本有至真、至善、至美、具足圓滿，永恆不朽的真我。在日常言行之中發揮真我，使我們一舉一動皆能合於理，止於至善，自然不會受周遭的人、事、物所左右，我們的心也就不會患得患失。〔心為一身之主〕，我們既然在心境上有所提昇，自然不會與邪惡之事相感應，則不相隨心轉，還可以改變命運，趨吉避凶，朝向光明，使我們得到真正的喜悅、逍遙、自在。

（二）躲刼避難：

自有人類文明以來，道的真義便代代單傳獨授，其脈絡貫穿了早期的主要文明，如中國、印度等。奈何近百年來人類受物慾所蔽，在空前繁榮的物質文明中逐漸迷昧了良心，甚至競相製造威力奇大的殺人武器。回顧數千年人類歷史，在近代短短數十年間，便發生了兩次世界大戰，無數小戰，傷亡無數。濫用科技文明同時也損害了自然環境，造成大氣臭氧層之破壞，全球性氣候的改變。人心之變，感召了天災人禍連連，人類已為自己醞釀了一個空前的浩劫。因此　　上帝鴻恩慈悲，特將大道普傳於世，以挽救良善。求道以後，我們時刻存著道心，以良心待人處世，當遇有人力不可挽救的災禍時，只要誠心使用三寶，必能躱災避劫，逢凶化吉。此事驗證甚多，不勝枚舉。

（三）超生了死：

人生有如一段苦樂相參的旅程，遭受生存競爭、衰老、病痛、死亡等困苦人皆難免，而人間種種歡樂又往往是短暫、易變的，尤其當旅程結束時，終究成空，歸宿渺茫，更不禁令人唏嚧悵惘。是以智慧者有鑑於此，乃以超生了死，追求真實永恆的人生意義，為人生至高之目標。

古代先修後得，因此古人為求超生了死，盡畢生之力，苦修苦行，仍難以訪得明師達成心願。如今大道普傳，先得後修，在求道過程中，天命明師一指，開啟了我們通天正門，先賦予超生了死的保障；我們得道以後，認識了真我，以真我為主宰，遠離邪心妄念，讓我們的心念、言語、行為，無論待人處世皆合於良知。百年之後，真我靈性自然返回故家鄉，永享平安喜樂。

（四）成聖成賢：

求道也就是為我們種下一個成聖成賢的正因道種，只要我們以智慧、慈悲、清淨灌溉它，它必然萌芽、開花、結果。

在此功利主義瀰漫的黑暗時代，大道乃是光明的燈塔。求道、修道不僅讓我們能夠獨善其身，更使我們有機會可以兼善天下。

求道之後，只要我們時刻抱著道心、良心，在日常生活中真誠實踐道的精神，不計個人得失榮辱，努力使周圍每一個人都可得享道的好處，讓道的光明照亮每一個角落，盡其一生，精進不懈，則在世即成就聖賢事業，歸天之後，必證聖賢果位無疑。

〔先天大道〕的寶貴就是〔天道天命〕，天命就是三曹明師，〔明師一點⊙玄關開，打開正門佛祖來，天堂非在我身外，天上地下我都在〕，此乃先天大道的尊至貴至寶也。

先天大道，天命寶貴，三曹明師這一點⊙妙至極矣，非是在言語、文字相、聲音可得，非是在千經萬典上得，非是在講經說法上得，非是在世智辯聰上得，非是在博學才能上得，非是在才高八斗上得，以上皆是生死法、對待法，非是超生了死、脫對待、了生死之法也。

此次即得先天大道妙用妙能的寶貴，其妙極矣，此者是無師智，此智是妙智妙慧，此智此慧是我本來固有的，由先天帶來的，亦即是再找回來天、地、人、萬物萬類未生以前我的初心，即我良心、天心、道心、老 心也。

〔先天大道〕之妙，此妙之貴，妙不容言，不學而知、不學而能，亦即是先天帶來的〔先知先覺妙用妙能〕，此知此覺此能此用，不用言語文字聲色、不用思想、不用念頭、不用言聽視動，而生天、地、人、萬物萬類；旣生天、地、人、萬物萬類之後，這天、地、人、萬物萬類，時刻分秒也離不開其妙用妙能，故曰萬靈真主宰也。

設若天離開先天大道之妙用妙能，則河漢星斗亂序，日月無光，亦不能輪轉，則陰陽二氣不能流通，萬物萬類、世界的眾生，人人皆不得其生存。

設若大地離開先天大道之妙用妙能，這金木水火土不能相配，則險象叢生，山崩地裂、海水枯乾，亦是萬物萬類、世界的眾生人人不能得其生存。

設若人離開先天大道之妙用妙能，則寸步難行，眼不能看、耳不能聽、口不能言，總之全身不能動作，一百日之後成了一堆臭骨、臭泥土。此乃先天大道妙用妙能的寶貴，妙至極矣。

設若覺悟認識〔先天大道〕之妙用妙能，得之持而實行，即是〔天人合一〕〔天人一體〕〔至理絕言〕〔妙不容言〕，不是死後成佛，當體即佛矣。故曰如來佛、如是佛也。此乃得先天大道、修先天大道之好處。

五、具備什麼條件才可以求道？

 求道既然能夠帶給我們終生受用不盡的好處，我們今日能有機會求道，會不會顯得太容易了？事實上，我們能得聞先天大道，首先要感謝　　

上帝的恩慈，將自古不輕洩的大道普傳於世，使我們有機會得此天之道；另一方面，我們本身也必須具備足夠的條件：祖上有德、根基深厚、佛緣成熟，才能夠順利求道。

此外，我們必須向宇宙至高無上的造物主──

上帝發一個良心愿。此愿可歸納為三個要點：

一、　得道以後，願意銘記並實踐道的精神，也就是日常生活所思所言所行，皆願以良心作為依歸。

二、　得道以後，願以能力所及，助周圍需要我們幫助的人，願意多了解道的意義，並讓更多的人蒙受天道的福祉。

三、　得道以後，絕不將求得的三寶告知任何人。三寶必須在莊嚴的求道過程中，天命明師傳授給我們才有真實意義，若由我們洩露給其他人，則不但毫無意義、毫無效果，我們自己也違反了天律。

這個良心愿，合乎人人本俱、天賦的良知良能，所以我們人人都能夠做到。真誠實踐良心愿，也必須滋潤我們求道時種下的智慧、慈悲、清靜之正因道種，使它順利萌芽、開花、結果，才不致虛渡這千載難逢的求道修道良辰。

值得一提的是，我們能順利求道，原因之一即是沾了祖德的光。是故上天開恩，只要我們修道有恆，則我們的祖先也有機會可以求道，超生得救；我們的子孫亦得蔭庇。對父母祖先盡大孝，這是最好的機會。　

只要具備以上條件，則不論任何國藉、種族、宗教信仰的人，都可以求道。

欲求得先天大道，脫出輪迴之苦、地獄之災，世間的窮通壽夭、鰥寡孤獨、生老病死苦，而返天堂永享天倫之樂者，必須：

１、我有得遇六萬年良辰佳期的幸運，我本人心地善良。

２、我有先天根基深厚，也就是我本人前世做的功德善事很多，此即天緣。

３、我本人祖先有功德，做善事，此即祖上有德。

４、我木人遇到引保師渡我得道，此佛緣已至。也就是前生我們一同做過功德善事，或一同有修過宗教，今生遇天道降世，一同得道修道，此乃佛緣已至。

六、求道對我的生活有什麼影響？

現今正值

上天恩開，先天大道普傳，拯救良善之時，故普傳方式皆以方便善巧，與眾生契機為原則，因此求道不會對我們正常的生活造成任何負面影響。這與以往許多人苦修苦煉，甚至出家的修行方式有很大差別。也正因為如此，先天大道能在日新月異的現代，適應社會的各個階層，傳佈到世界的各個角落，使人人皆有共沾

天恩、得聞大道的機會。關於求道對生活有什麼影響，我們就以下幾點來看：

（一）與任何宗教沒有衝突

道代表著天、地、萬物及我們一身之最高主宰與真理。不只在各大敎門創始之前，甚至在天、地未生以前，道就已經存在了。因此，任何教門，只要其教義是追求真理及實踐良心，就不會與道有任何衝突。事實上，不只宗教，只要我們以探求真理的角度去觀察，則自然界萬事萬物皆能與道吻合與印證。若我們原有某種宗教信仰，求道將不會造成任何砥觸，也不會使我們背棄原有的信仰，反而讓我們對真理的探求，有更深一層的體認。

（二）以〔良心經〕為最高規戒

每一個人生活環境中的文化習俗、時代背景、法律條文及價值觀念都不完全相同。因此，沒有任何一個具體的規戒或條文能夠適用於所有的人。所以，求道後的規戒，著重在我們每個人真我良心之實踐，由真我良心主宰自己，而不是在經典之背誦上及律法之鑽研上下功夫。

（三）不照良心愿行，有何後果？

很重要的一點：求道並非從外在加給我們良心與真理，而是藉著開啟我們智慧、慈悲之門，找回我們身上固有的真理，讓天理良心自然流露。因此求道後，所有真修實行之人，皆是自動自發的。是故，求道後若我們不照良心愿而行，並非將出現任何外力，來強制我們遵行此愿；而是將受到自己良心的譴責，由真我良心督促自己，而自然改過向善。

（四）聖凡兼修

真我之實踐，並不侷限於教堂或寺廟之中。因此，現今大道普傳，並不要我們抛家捨業，躱到深山古寺之中修煉，而是在不影響家庭、工作、學業之正常情況下聖凡兼修。在日常生活中，時時刻刻、一言一行，皆能以天理良心為依歸，就是真我之實踐。

（五）由提昇自己而兼善天下

求道後會使我們生活更充實，心靈更和諧。而更重要的是，我們每一個人盡一己之力，藉自身之提昇，影響周遭之人、事、物，繼而匯成一股力量，在這舉世天理良心日趨淪喪之潮流中，匡正人心，力挽狂瀾。如此必能早日實現先天大道普傳之宗旨及　　彌勒佛的源慈大願──化污澤的人間為人間淨土，化紛亂的世界為世間天國。

七、道的寶貴有什麼印證？

道是宇宙的至高真理，他的作用貫穿了天、地、萬物萬類，更是我們一身之最高主宰。真正了解了這一點，我們就會體認到，道是隨時隨處可以被印證的。許多前賢得道之後，發出了大誠心、大信心、大智慧，真修真行，皆能參悟到，不只在各教經典之中可以印證道，其實在任何時間、空間、萬事萬物、我們之一身，甚至一草一木，皆離不開道的本體和妙用，體認至此，自然能發出永不退轉之道心。而尚未求道或剛求道者，則須藉助於一些具有形相、看得到、感受得到的印證，以奠定初步的信心。

（一）任何人，只要有求道，經過身擔天命之明師點開玄關正門，傳授三寶者，無論其功德高深微末，死後皆是身軟如綿，面色如生，靈性由正門歸天，冬不挺屍，夏不腐臭，甚有多至數日不變，異香滿室者。目前的科技文明和醫學知識還未進步到足以解釋這種現象，但卻無法否認這個事實的存在。這種現象雖曾出現在某些宗教中，但極其罕見而珍貴；而求道之人除信道不篤與反道敗德者，不敢定論外，其餘則比比皆是。肉身既顯此瑞相，足可證其靈性已登善境，當無疑問。

（二）人雖為萬物之靈，其實是很脆弱的，自從生在這個世界上，就難免天災人禍的威脅。甚多已求道者，在遇到人力不可挽救之危急情況下，誠心使用三寶，皆能大事化小，小事化無，這種例證多得不可勝數，無法在此一一例舉。

以上兩點雖然極為寶貴，但卻是任何人，只要一求道，藉著

上帝的天命寶貴，立刻就可以得到的保障。此後，就隨個人的誠心、智慧、及對真理之實踐，而有或深或淺不同的體認了。如人飲水，冷暖自知。希望各位具有善根，有機會能得聞大道的先生女士，皆能入寶山而滿載而歸，皆能求道而同臻善境。

INTRODUCTION TO DAO

I. WHAT IS DAO

II. DAO AND ME

III. WHAT IT IS IN DAO

IV.WHAT DO I GET IN RECEIVNING DAO

V. WHAT DO WE NEED TO RECEIVE DAO

VI. WHAT IMPACT DOES RECEIVING DAO HAVE ON ME

VII. WHAT CAN ATTEST THE VALIDITY OF DAO

I. WHAT IS DAO

Observing the cosmos and all the living beings consciously, among all the earthly activities and phenomena, we will find the existence of the laws of nature. There is a supernatural origin which guides all the operations happening across the galaxy, the earth, and the human beings. We call this source “DAO”.

Dao existed before primordial time, and even before the universe was merged. It is the origin of the world and it thereafter nurtures all the creatures and beings. Since it is unchangeable and does not evolve with time, it is the ultimate truth. It is what all saints and sages throughout human history have been searching for.

The essence of Dao is the foundation of nature. The law or the power that existed before the universe was formed is beyond description because there were no civilizations nor creatures, let alone languages. Since it cannot be applied any name, we simply call it “Dao”.

After the world was merged, along with the mutations of the universe, we see the harmonious actions as exhibited in seasonal changes, rhythms of time and tide, and the balance of the ecosystem. We also find some conformity of human nature across various cultures. These prove the laws of nature. This is the extension of that original “Dao” when it is substantiated and materialized. It merged into everything that is with and within us.

Now that we know Dao is present universally and yet difficult to be recognized, there have been prophets and preachers trying to make us know and understand the origin and the truth of life through various teachings and literature since the beginning of civilization. They were scattered around the world throughout history. As a result, great commandments were taught to disciples and goodness and badness were differentiated. These teachings varied, based on differences in culture, background, timing and the level of each individual’s comprehension. However, they all tried to express and transmit to their descendants, this creator and chief of the universe. It is “God”, or what we call “Dao”.

As we get to know it more and more, we will realize that the essence of Dao and its effect covers every existence without any exceptions.

Dao id actually the headwaters of all religions. It embraces the essence of all the preaching and teachings. And yet, it is superior to the system of belief. It is the nature, the universe itself. “Dao” or “God” represents the highest authority and power of nature. It is also the headstream and superior to all. It is the unchangeable principle.

Understanding “Dao” allow us not only to discover the center of all religious belief, but also to communicate with the origin and the highest power of nature. We will then be able to relate ourselves to the truth of the universe.

To probe further:

Dao existed before the formation of all, yet it was not anterior, which means that the creation was embedded in it. Dao merges into the creation, yet is not posterior, which means that it is not thereafter limited. Among those created, however large, they can be measured; however small, they can be detected. It is only Dao that cannot be measured of its immensity nor detected of its existence. Therefore, it is larger than the largest and leaves nothing excluded, and yet it can be smaller than the smallest and leaves nothing not penetrated. It is ubiquitous. It merges into and governs all. It is in charge of the space, the earth, human beings, all the creatures, and all existences. It penetrates and regulates the entire universe. It is the source of all the scriptures, sutras, as well as dharmas. It encompasses all the religions, and it is what makes one a Buddha or a saint. It is the single chief of all. And, above all, it is in charge of each individual too. It is the divine self. This is the true meaning of Dao. We should get to know it this way and rediscover our own invaluable treasure. So, to practice Dao is to revive one’s own conscience as well as everyone else’s and to act upon it accordingly. Then, all people can be of one spirit, all nations can be in peace like a family, and the Great Harmony will come true. How precious Dao is!

II. DAO AND ME

The significance of Dao is in its immensity and ubiquity. Its mightiness guides the universe to carry on with changing seasons and evolving creatures. The countless aspects of the natural phenomena seem so capricious and yet really in order and in cycles. This almighty being also resides in each of us. It is the divine self, the natural quality of a person. It enables us to see, to feel, to taste, to hear, and to move without learning.

While we research the ultimate truth in the universe, we should turn in upon and see into ourselves to discover that divine self. We will find the rules that govern the universe also comply with the way we are.

Dao is not something too far to reach, nor too mysterious to comprehend. It is nothing particular, but has to do with our daily lives. We cannot do without it. Every movement we make, in order to see, to touch, to feel and to think, is associated with Dao. Consider how many wonders are hidden in our body, how delicately our physical functions are carried out. For example, when we shake hands, the components involved would include the coordination of joints and muscles, the chemical reactions of energy, the transmission of information through nerve systems, and the actions occurring in our brain such as issuing orders, making judgements and analyzing situations. Even with the most advanced technology and the highest level of knowledge we have developed today, we cannot completely reconstruct such a function. Yet the ability to perform such a simple movement is there for all individuals, regardless of the level of a person’s knowledge and his/her being a grown-up or a baby, a scholar or an illiterate. Theses are the kind of abilities we come equipped with naturally, without learning and being taught. It sits within us and is in charge of all. It is “Dao”, never diminishes nor inflates.

Worldly knowledge acquired through learning can be forgotten. A gymnast can abandon his/her techniques and a musician can lose his/her skills without practicing. The essence of Dao and its extension are always in charge of the macro-universe - - the nature, and the micro-universe - - the human being’s self. We are associated with it unconsciously since the first day. Because it encompasses the whole nature within us, we also call it “native self”.

Dao is within and surrounding us. It needs not be worshiped nor debated over. Because its existence is unconditional, regardless of race, color, nationality, religion or status. It is impartial and stays constant.

In receiving Dao, we not only find the origin of the universe, but also the divine self. We get to know the highest power in the universe as well as the genuine nature in charge of self. We discover the ultimate truth of the cosmos as well as the integrity of ourselves. Recognizing that the laws which govern the universe also govern us makes us be able to return to our true nature.

To probe further:

The most essential concept in Dao is that we all possess it intrinsically. It is the wisdom and ability we were born with without learning or practicing. It is one’s conscience, which is like the spirit of God - - the divine and immortal nature. It is invisible and intangible. For this reason, we call it “genuine emptiness”, which means that to be really empty, it goes beyond emptiness and can therefore have marvellous existence in it. “Marvellous existence” is the foundation for the sky, the earth, human beings, all the creatures, and all existences. With omnipotence, Dao is called “Great Lord of All Beings”. This almighty being is not only in charge of the entire universe, but also in charge of oneself. So the proverb is, “Dao is within self which is the drive of all one’s abilities; A physical body without Dao is useless.” This is the treasure that we should all realize and fully explore.

III. WHAT IT IS IN DAO

When we look around the world, we admire the miracles and wonders of nature. Countless things change and move simultaneously every second, and yet in order and in harmony. So do our bodies. Countless biochemical reactions and physical functions occur concurrently within our bodies. Without learning and thinking that come subjectively, the thousands of activities that happen within us are the extension and action of Dao. And all together, it is one single self. It functions naturally and automatically without the need for our intents to be involved. This is the effect of Dao within us.

Dao is not only in control of the universe and nature, but also in charge of every human being in his/her own actions. In other words, it is the same source that governs us as well as everything else. Dao is invisible and intangible, but it has been working out its magic before day one. Thereafter, languages, cultures, religious scriptures, literature, and civilization were developed. They all originate from Dao functioning within us.

People don’t realize it is “Dao” that has been residing and working within us and have used “soul” to represent the confusing and yet irrefutable being. Because it is eternal and intangible, we also call it “true self”. This true self is the most abundant, brilliant, and imperishable being.

Let’s take a look at our tangible body and see if it can be the true self. We know the pictures taken throughout one’s life show different faces and expressions. We recognize people by face, but our looks change and are not permanent. The handicapped, with impaired arms or legs, can also lead a complete life. One with a transplanted animal heart is still ha human being. Even our brain cells keep decreasing and changing every second from the moment we were born. Therefore, the physical body is only the interim residence of the true self. Though it seems so real, solid and alive, it turns into dirt eventually. We call it “false self” because of its tentative and transient nature.

By recognizing the difference between the true self and the false self, we understand the reason and importance for us to receive Dao. Luckily, we are given the opportunity of receiving Dao and learning the “Three Treasures”. The Three Treasures are straight forward yet profound. The meaning and details of them will be illustrated through the rite of receiving Dao. Here, we only discuss two issues:

First, by receiving Dao, the true self gets pointed out. It leads to our conscience. Upon the time when material pursuance surpasses spiritual seeking, giving up the true self only makes us a walking corpse. In order to fulfill and satisfy the sensational desires of the false self, we may commit wrong-doings and harm others, eventually creating troubles for ourselves. Our inner conscience is identified and enlightened by receiving Dao. Thus, the body gets to work with the spirit in a mutually beneficial and harmonious way, making our lives joyful, and meaningful.

Second, by receiving Dao, the front door or Main Gate of our bodies gets opened. It leads us to conscience, mercy and wisdom. When we leave a house, we leave through the front door. If the front door is locked, we may have to leave through the back door, or even by breaking the window or jumping off the balcony. We may fall and get hurt by doing so. Our body is like a house, and our soul is the master who lives in the house. One day, when the body is aged and depleted and the soul has to leave, we can imagine its horror if it can not leave through the correct exit. This is the pain and discomfort human beings experience at the coming of death and after death. As we know, for most people, when they are dying, their body shows stiffness, and signs of helplessness and confusion. After we receive Dao, the door of life and death will be opened.

Being able to receive Dao and the Three Treasures while having the door to heaven opened, we have the opportunity to recognize the true self and the Dao that dwells within us. We are going to treat people and the world with conscience and make our lives more meaningful. We can transcend life and death. Within a hundred years, we will be able to return to where we came from. Therefore, the heavenly Dao is also the way to return back to heaven.

To Probe further:

The enlightenment of Dao is superior to studying thousands of sutras. This is the value of Dao. The enlightenment of Dao opens the Main Gate, the front door, which is the entrance to heaven. It gives us the guarantee to be exempted from rebirth cycles and to reach eternity. The superiority of this enlightenment lies in that it surpasses Buddhas and saints, it exceeds the scope of sutras and dharmas, and it transcends the universe. Dao is therefore Source of All Sutras, King of All Dharmas, Mother of All Buddhas, and Creator of the Universe. Transcendence of rebirth cycles leads to eternity. Being imperishable, Dao never deteriorates, and we have never lost it at all. Hence Dao is the direct way back to heaven.

IV.WHAT DO I GET IN RECEIVNING DAO

As mentioned earlier, by receiving Dao, we act upon our conscience, gain more wisdom, and find the door to heaven. In addition to these basics, we also benefit from the following for our lifetime.

A. Being away from sufferings and closer to happiness

The troubles and worries we face in our daily lives mostly result from our disregard of the true self. Receiving Dao helps us to recognize the Dao that has bee dwelling in us and to restore the beauty of the true self, so that our behavior and mind is free from being controlled by the earthly pleasures and being swayed by the losses and gains of the material world. Since our minds are cultivated spiritually, devils would not approach and get close to us. Thus, our fortune can be altered from bad to bright, and we can obtain real joy.

B. Being away from disaster and calamities

Dao has been passed on through generations to one single master since the beginning of human history. The thread of its passage weaves through ancient civilizations, including China and India. However, in recent centuries, human beings have been trapped by materialism and a weaker sense of right and wrong. Wars prompted the development of powerful lethal weapons. In reviewing the thousands of years of human history, we realize, in just less than one hundred years, there have been two major world wars, which caused numerous killings and tragedies. The abuse of science and technology has also destroyed the ecology, causing damage to the ozonosphere and the unbalance of the climate. The corruption of human beings’ minds has called the natural disasters to come. The human have created calamity. God, with his mercy, makes Dao available to everybody in order to save good people. After we receive Dao, with the true meaning of Dao in mind, we will be conscientious. We can use the Three Treasures whenever something dangerous and uncontrollable happens to us. We will be able to get away from bad encounters. This is a confessed fact.

C. Transcending life and death

Life is a mixture of happiness and bitterness. Throughout the journey of life, we experience birth, growth, aging, illness, and death. Joys are momentary and wealth is here today and gone tomorrow. Rather than seeking the pleasure of material life, the wise make full use of their lifetime searching the true meaning of life and eternity.

In old times, Dao could only be received after harsh self-cultivation. Among the hermits looking for the master in order to receive Dao, only very few could obtain it. Whereas in this century, Dao is allowed to be spread and transmitted through the authorized masters to the truth-seekers. The master points out the Main Gate of life and death, assuring the completeness of our true self. With the true self as our guide, which keeps us away from evil and greed, it helps us think , speak, and act in accordance with our conscience and intuition. Death then becomes the return of our soul to the eternal and peaceful home where we came from. Thus, we will have lasting joy.

D. Achieving sacred beings

The enlightenment of Dao, which reveals the true self, is like the planting of the seed of righteousness and integrity. Through self-cultivation and self-improvement, the nurturing of wisdom, kindness, and purity, it will blossom and produce the fruit of sacred mind and eternal life.

In time of overwhelming utilitarianism, Dao is the lighthouse to the truth. Receiving Dao, and then cultivating ourselves, not only improves our own lives, but also gives us the opportunity to better the world.

After we receive Dao, we act upon our conscience and care for people around us. We cherish Dao and disregard personal disadvantages. Then we make an effort to spread the message of Dao to the world, in order for everyone to benefit from it. We are devoting ourselves to the work of God, and certainly will achieve spiritual perfection in both this world and the world after life.

To probe further:

The supremacy of Dao is based on the Heavenly Decree of God, by which Grand Masters can perform the passage of Dao. The enlightenment of Dao from Grand Masters directly opens the Main Gate of our bodies, which revives our divine nature. It reveals that heaven is not beyond oneself. Instead, one’s true self merges into the entire universe.” This is the supremacy of Dao.

1.  With the Heavenly Decree, the enlightenment of Dao is extremely profound and marvellous. It cannot be completely expressed by any words of languages. It is not recorded on any scriptures or sutras. It cannot be described by preaching, nor can it be acquired by human intelligence, nor derived from knowledge and experience, nor achieved from gifted talents. Because the above mentioned all have to be created and can be eliminated, which means that they cannot last forever themselves. They all bear partiality and cannot be applied universally. Hence, they cannot surpass life cycles, nor can they reach eternity.

2.  The wonder of the effects and omnipotence of Dao is beyond words. It is the wisdom that does not come form learning. It is what we acquire from God and possess intrinsically. It is the same divine heart before the creation of the universe. It is conscience, the holy heart. It is the divine and immortal nature-the spirit of God.

3.  Dao is too marvellous to be described. It makes us know without learning and function without practicing. It is a prior wisdom, perception, potency, and ability. It’s not constrained by words or languages. It functions without thinking, intents, or even actions. However, it can create the sky, the world, the human, all beings, and all existences. All these, after being created, still cannot carry on without Dao even for one moment. Dao is therefore called Great Lord of All Beings.

4.  Without Dao, the stars and planets in the sky wouldn’t have been in order. The sun ‘and the moon couldn’t have illuminated or revolved properly. Then the yin-yang energies wouldn’t have circulated, and, as a result, this world wouldn’t have been suitable for all of us to live in.

5.  Without Dao, the five primary elements of the earth (metal, wood, water, fire, and soil) wouldn’t have been balanced and complemented one another, which could have put the entire world in chaos. Mountains would have collapsed, lands would have cracked, and oceans would have dried up. Likewise, this world wouldn’t have been an environment for us to live in.

6.  Without Dao, we, human beings, wouldn’t have been able to walk, to see, to hear, to speak, or to move. Our physical bodies would deteriorate quickly into a pile of soil in a hundred days.

7.  If one really comprehends the effects and omnipotence of Dao, and can practice accordingly and persistently, one can communicate with and be united with God. This is the absolute truth. It is a glory and marvel beyond description. Therefore, it not after death that one becomes a Buddha. It is when one is still alive that one achieves being a Buddha. And to be a Buddha is to revive and hold on to one’s divine and original nature. This is what we benefit from attaining and practicing Dao.   

V. WHAT DO WE NEED TO RECEIVE DAO

We have discussed the many benefits we obtain after receiving Dao. Some would wonder, why there is so much given to us. Of course, we should realize it comes from God’s grace toward human beings. This allows Dao to be spread around the world, especially at the approaching of the world-wide calamity. People with merit and conscientious mind will have the opportunity of learning about Dao and the way back to heaven. It always holds true that people who have the fortune of receiving Dao are derived from the tree of righteous ancestors.

In addition, during the passage of Dao, it is required that we make promises to God that:

A.  After we receive Dao, we will keep in mind the true meaning of Dao and put it into action in our daily life. What we speak and what we do will all be based on our conscience.

B.  After we receive Dao, we offer help to those in need of it, and do our best to indicate Dao to more people so that they can all benefit from the grace of God.

C.  After we attain the Three Treasures, we promise not to tell them to any other person. The Three Treasures can only be transmitted through authorized masters in front of God. If we reveal them to any person, they become invalid to the person, and we also defy the Heavenly Decree.

All the promises required are reasonable and achievable. It goes with our nature. If we practice and keep the promises, we will be able to become a wiser and a better person. We will become merciful, and nurture the good seed of Dao planted in out mind. 

One last thing to mention is that one of the reasons we are able to receive Dao is due to the good deeds of our ancestors. Therefore, as we persistently practice Dao, our ancestors will also benefit from it and so will our descendants.

As long as you are prepared for the above mentioned, you are qualified to receive Dao, no matter what nationality, race, or religion you belong to.

Notes:

In order to be exempted from the rebirth cycles, to avoid the ordeal of hell, to alleviate the suffering and misfortunes in our lives, and to be able to return back to heaven after death and enjoy permanent happiness, we have to receive Dao. And the general qualifications are:

1.  To be with a compassionate heart, and to be fortunate enough to be born in a time when Dao is available to the public.

2.  To have sowed the seeds of virtue by helping many people and offering lots of charitable services in the previous lives. This is the divine affinity with God.

3.  To have ancestors with beneficences and welfare work as well.

4.  To meet the Introducer and Guarantor who indicate the way to attain Dao to me. It is very likely that, in the previous lives, we did charitable services together, or we self-cultivated together in the same religion. So, in this life, when Dao is available, we can help each other out and practice Dao together again. So time is ripe for Dao due to our divine affinity.

VI. WHAT IMPACT DOES RECEIVING DAO HAVE ON ME

As we mentioned before, unlike the old days when hermits had to leave their families to receive Dao through meditation and self-cultivation, Dao, at the present time, can be received in a way that’s applicable and conforming to our practical needs. We don’t have to give up our life style in order to attain Dao. By the grace of God, Dao is intended to be delivered to the public at all levels of occupations and around the world, rather than being limited to a privileged group of people.

The impacts that receiving Dao can have on our daily life are summarized as the following:

A.  Receiving Dao creates no conflicts with any religions

Dao governs the universe including all human beings. It existed before the formation of any religions. It is concordant with all religions, in the sense that religions preach the awareness of conscience and the pursuit of the truth. We don’t need to give up our religion in order to receive Dao. On the contrary, by receiving Dao, we will have further understanding of the truth.

B.  Conscience becomes our ultimate guidance

Due to the variations of cultures, customs, backgrounds, legislation, and value systems, it is difficult to find a universal guideline for all of us to follow in our daily life. In receiving Dao, the main commandment is to act by our conscience, the true self, rather than by literature. We should be sensitive to the conscience, rather than be familiar with the laws.

C.  We will voluntarily keep the promised made while receiving Dao

Through receiving Dao, we are not offered conscience or true self, but merely the opening of the door to wisdom and mercy. Therefore, we restore the heavenly principles inherent in us, and strengthen the power originating from our conscience. There is no external force that makes us keep the promises and commitments that we made when we receive Dao. The only force comes from the guilty feelings that result from our misbehaviours, which reduces the mistakes we make.

D.  Practicing Dao can accommodate our worldly affairs

The fulfillment of practicing Dao and conscientious awareness does not have to be accomplished in a temple or church. It is not required to abandon worldly belongings or relationships in order to attain the ultimate truth. Each individual can still have his/her family, career, and schooling at the same time. As long as we keep in mind the basic guideline we should have are practicing Dao and getting closer to our divine self.

E.  We will make a better world by improving ourselves first

After we receive Dao, by realizing the true self and what we are, the feeling of joy comes to us. The improvements on the quality of our spiritual life will affect people surrounding us. By interacting and working together in Dao, we will make the world better with lower crime rate and less pollution. The wish of Maitreya will finally come true - - to turn the world into God’s kingdom and make people all live in harmony.

VII. WHAT CAN ATTEST THE VALIDITY OF DAO

Dao, due to its completeness and generality, regulates the totality of all beings. Many people, after receiving Dao, with their wisdom, faith, and devotion, realize that Dao is the fundamental principle that governs all things. They comprehend the truth of the universe not only through literature, but also through daily living and nature. Their faith in Dao becomes strengthened and they move forward in their spiritual life. However, for people who haven’t or just received Dao, Dao can be confirmed through revelations.

A.   Anyone who has received Dao with the front door opened shall die peacefully. One proof of this is that for those who have received Dao and died, their bodies remained soft and their faces vivid. Since the soul leaves the body through the correct exit, the corpse can actually remain un-corroded for a few days. With the most advanced modern science and technology, it is still difficult to explain this phenomenon. However, it is a FACT that cannot be denied. This has happened before in some religions, but very rarely. For people who have received Dao, this kind of testimony is ubiquitous, unless they have committed serious sins and corrupted their own mind. This can prove the soul has reached an ultimate harmony.

B.  Being the superintendent of the things on earth, human beings are nonetheless weak. Since birth, we are subject to unpredictable accidents and natural disasters. There have been many people who encountered danger, used the Three Treasures with faith, and got away from the danger or reduced the damage to the minimum. Testimonies of this kind are numerous.

The above two mentioned are rarely heard of and difficult to believe, but they are the immediate security given by God once a person has received Dao. Thereafter, with each individual’s faith, wisdom, and the accumulation of good deeds, one will come to know the truth more and more. It’s up to you to experience the value of this treasure. I hope you will have the opportunity to receive Dao, experience it in your life, achieve ultimate perfection, and realize eternity.