August 21 2021

Aug 21, 2021

Master Huijing’s Short Dharma Teachings Expressing the Perception of the Pure Land

淨土述懷

The light of the bright moon gives warmth to the great land, which can humbly moisten the soil that produces clean fragrant lotus flowers in full bloom. Amitabha’s heart and light of wisdom shine in that land, to open the minds of afflicted sentient beings, and produces the lotus flower of pure faith.

The moonlight is tender and cool everywhere. It enables all practitioners to be relieved of the fire of anger and have joy in their hearts. Amitabha’s empathy enables all sentient beings to forever be embraced and protected, and fills them with hope.

(to be continued tomorrow)

明月之光,溫暖大地,能令卑濕污泥,香潔蓮華,開敷鮮明;彌陀之心,慧光遐被,能令煩惱眾生,淨信蓮華,開敷決定。

月光柔和,遍洒清涼,能令一切行人,解除熱惱,心生歡喜;彌陀大悲,徹底哀愍,能令一切眾生,常蒙護念,心生希望。

Namo Amituofo!

August 20 2021

Aug 20, 2021

Master Huijing’s Short Dharma Teachings concerning the Patriarchal Lineage of the Pure Land School – Master Tanluan

《淨宗傳承之曇鸞大師》

Amitabha always remembers and thinks of sentient beings. With his Name in the form of light, Amitabha embraces those who recite his Name. On the other hand, sentient beings remember and think of Amitabha, which leads them to exclusively recite his Name and never forsake it. Thus, Amitabha and sentient beings, sentient beings and Amitabha, form one body. The one who remembers and the other who is remembered fuse together; the one who can stimulate and the other who can respond fuse together. It is said “to match as such”.

彌陀憶念眾生,彌陀以光明的名號攝取念佛的眾生;另一方面,眾生憶念彌陀,眾生專稱攝取不捨的名號,因此,彌陀與眾生,眾生與彌陀,就彼此機法一體,能念的跟所念的、能感的跟所感的就融合在一起了,此謂之「如實修行相應」。

Namo Amituofo!

August 19 2021

Aug 19, 2021

Master Huijing’s Short Dharma Teachings about the Patriarchal Lineage of the Pure Land School – the 18th Vow

淨宗傳承之第十八願

The 18th Vow is the source and origin of our teaching. It is the main cause of rebirth, and provides the credentials for rebirth. It also contains the life of Amitabha Buddha and the lives of all Amitabha-reciters. The founding of the Pure Land School is based on the 18th Vow, which is the root source and lifeline in the transmission of its lineage.

第十八願是我們這個法門的根源,是往生的正因、往生的資糧。也可以說第十八願是阿彌陀佛的生命,是我們念佛人的生命,是淨土宗得以稱為淨土宗的根源,也就是說,淨土宗的開宗立派,淨土宗的法脈傳承,都根源於第十八願。

Namo Amituofo!

August 18 2021

Aug 18, 2021

Common Knowledge in Pure Land Teaching

淨土小常識

The written works of Master Shandao consist of Five Volumes and Nine Fascicles:

4 fascicles in the Commentary on the Contemplation Sutra, 1 fascicle in the Dharma School of Contemplation and Recitation, 1 fascicle in the Praise of Dharma Practice, 2 fascicles in the Praise of the Rite of Rebirth, and 1 fascicle in the Praise of Pratyutpanna.

Among them, the Commentary on the Contemplation Sutra is written in 1 volume with 4 fascicles. This establishes the theoretical foundation of the Pure Land School. It is known as the Fundamental Commentary and also as Part of the Explication of the Meaning, and belongs to the Teachings of the Dharma.

The other 4 volumes and 5 fascicles are affiliated with the Fundamental Commentary, which sets the codes, disciplines, and practices of the Pure Land School. Thus, it is called the Supplementary Commentary. It means the Fundamental Commentary on the settlement of the mind through the practice of the teachings.

The Supplementary Commentaries describe the rites in practice. The two are as one body and are mutually interrelated.

五部九卷 - 指善導大師留世的著作共有五部九卷,即《觀經疏》四卷、《觀念法門》一卷、《法事讚》二卷、《往生禮讚》一卷、《般舟讚》一卷。

其中《觀經疏》一部四卷,為建立淨土門根本教理之作,稱為「本疏」,也稱「解義分」,屬於教門。

其餘四部五卷,皆附屬於「本疏」,確立淨土門 的行業規範,稱為「具疏」或「行儀分」,屬於行門。亦即「本疏」述教相之安心,「具疏」述實踐之行儀,二者一體,相輔相成。

Namo Amituofo!

August 17 2021

Aug 17, 2021

Master Huijing’s Short Dharma Teachings about Faith in Pure Land Buddhism

淨土信仰

Those who walk the Pure Land Path have lotus flowers at their feet with every step. Because they are always embraced and protected by Amitabha’s light, they do not have any obstructions. Why? Master Shandao put forward four reasons:

It is because one has right mindfulness without interference or disturbance by assorted external factors. 

It is because it corresponds to Amitabha’s Fundamental Vow. 

It is because it does not violate Shakyamuni Buddha’s teaching. 

It is because it accords with the teachings of numerous Buddhas. 

These are known as the “Four Gains” through Exclusive Practice.

In other words, as long as we exclusively recite Amitabha’s Name, we can attain these four benefits. 

First, without interference or disturbance by assorted external factors, we can reinforce our right mindfulness and attention. In this respect, we can naturally attain the following three benefits - corresponding to Amitabha’s Fundamental Vow, not violating but matching Shakyamuni Buddha’s teaching, and not violating the validation and praise of Buddhas of the ten directions.

走在淨土之道的人,步步踏著蓮花,時時受著彌陀光明的護持,所以沒有任何障礙。何以故?善導大師提出「四故」:「無外雜緣得正念故;與佛本願得相應故;不違教故;隨順佛語故。」這個叫做「專修四得」。

換言之,只要專修就能夠得到這四種利益,第一種就是外沒有雜緣,能夠鞏固我們的正念。外沒有雜緣,我們的正念堅固,就能夠得到三種相應,自自然然跟阿彌陀佛的本願相應,也跟釋迦牟尼佛的教導相應不違背,同時又跟十方諸佛所證明讚歎的也不違背。

Namo Amituofo!

August 16 2021

Aug 16, 2021

An excerpt from ‘In Praise of the Rite of Rebirth’ by Master Shandao

善導大師《往生禮讚》摘句

The Sutra of the Ten Rebirths says, “When those who exclusively invoke Amitabha Buddha in the Western Pure Land aspire to be reborn, that Buddha immediately sends 25 bodhisattvas to protect and embrace them. While walking, sitting, standing, lying down, during day time, night time, at all times, and in all places, they will not be exposed to evil ghosts and demons.

As the Contemplation Sutra says, “If any person invokes Amitabha’s Name, prostrates to Amitabha Buddha, and aspires to be reborn in his Land of Bliss, that Buddha will immediately send numerous manifestation buddhas, and numerous manifestations of Avalokiteshvara and Mahasthamaprapta bodhisattvas to come and protect him.

In addition to the 25 bodhisattvas mentioned previously, all of them gather around those [Amitabha-recitation] practitioners in hundreds and thousands of layers. They stay with them whenever and wherever, and under all circumstances (whether they are walking, standing, sitting, or lying down). As there are so many benefits offered by Amitabha Buddha, all people should truly aspire to be reborn in his Pure Land.

《十往生經》云:若有眾生,念阿彌陀佛,願往生者,彼佛即遣二十五菩薩,擁護行者;若行、若坐、若住、若臥,若晝、若夜,一切時,一切處,不令惡鬼惡神,得其便也。

又如《觀經》(意)云:若稱禮念阿彌陀佛,願往生彼國者,彼佛即遣無數化佛,無數化觀音、勢至菩薩,護念行者;復與前二十五菩薩等,百重千重圍繞行者,不問行住坐臥,一切時處,若晝若夜,常不離行者。今既有斯勝益可憑,願諸行者,各須至心求往。

Namo Amituofo!

August 15 2021

Aug 15, 2021

Master Yinguang’s Short Teaching about Rebirth for Those Who Still Have Karma

印光大師「帶業往生」之文(佛力帶業往生)

The teaching of Amitabha-recitation is considered special or particular among the Buddhist teachings. A person can attain rebirth, even bringing along his karma from the present life, with recourse to the Buddha’s power.

With respect to this world, as he has not cut off his delusive karma, it is known as “bringing along his karma”.

However, with respect to rebirth in the Western Land, karma is absent, so it does not mean we bring our karma to the Western Land.

念佛法門,乃佛法之特別法門;仗佛慈力,可以帶業往生。

約在此界,尚未斷惑業,名帶業;

若生西方,則無業可得,非將業帶到西方去。

Namo Amituofo!

August 14 2021

Aug 14, 2021

Master Huijing’s Short Dharma Teachings Expressing the Perception of the Pure Land

淨土述懷

(continued)

The Fundamental Vow blesses people with peace of mind, hope, and kindness. 

It is because, no matter who and no matter how, “Namo Amituofo” will positively save and deliver us.

“Namo Amituofo” is guaranteed to save and deliver us.

因有本願,使人安心,使人希望,使人善良。

因為不論如何,不論如何,南無阿彌陀佛都必救度。

南無阿彌陀佛都必救度。

Namo Amituofo!

August 13 2021

Aug 13, 2021

Master Huijing’s Short Dharma Teachings Expressing the Perception of the Pure Land

淨土述懷

(continued)

For sentient beings, no matter how dirty, impure, pretentious, or fake they are, Amitabha’s deliverance remains unchanged.

For sentient beings, no matter how attached they are to love and hatred, or how foolish and evil they are, Amitabha’s deliverance remains unchanged.

For sentient beings, no matter how heavy their karmic obstructions are, or how furious their afflictions are, Amitabha’s deliverance remains unchanged.

For sentient beings, no matter how they commit the Five Gravest Transgressions and slander the Dharma, or how they lack the true practice of cultivation, Amitabha’s deliverance remains unchanged.

不論眾生,如何污穢不淨、虛假諂偽,彌陀救度,永不改變。

不論眾生,如何貪愛瞋憎、愚癡狂惡,彌陀救度,永不改變。

不論眾生,如何罪深障重、苦惱強盛,彌陀救度,永不改變。

不論眾生,如何五逆謗法,缺乏修行,彌陀救度,永不改變。

Namo Amituofo!

August 12 2021

Aug 12, 2021

Master Huijing’s Short Dharma Teachings Expressing the Perception of the Pure Land

淨土述懷

No matter how, Amitabha’s vows resemble a diamond, never changing.

No matter how, Amitabha thinks of me, like a mother thinks of her son, never forsaking.

No matter how, Amitabha always accompanies me, and never dislikes me.

No matter how, we are evil ordinary beings who need Amitabha’s deliverance through His Fundamental Vow.

(continued)

不論如何,彌陀本願,猶如金剛,永不改變。

不論如何,彌陀念我,如母憶子,永不捨離。

不論如何,彌陀時刻,與我同在,永不嫌棄。

不論如何,造惡眾生,需要彌陀,本願救度。

Namo Amituofo!

August 11 2021

Aug 11, 2021

Master Huijing’s Short Dharma Teachings about the Patriarchal Lineage of the Pure Land School – Master Tanluan

《淨宗傳承之曇鸞大師》

(continued)

“Recitation without interruption means to continuously produce the sound of the Buddha’s Name from our mouths. This is the meaning of “without interruption in recitation”, also known as “even ten times”. That is the main cause and the karma of assurance of rebirth. All the credentials necessary for rebirth are included. This is why it is said, “the matter of rebirth is already completely accomplished.”

這「令聲不絕」就是使我們嘴巴念出這一句佛號的聲音,而相續不斷的下去, 叫做「令聲不絕」,這個也叫做「具足十念」。這樣就是往生的正因,往生的正業,只要這樣往生的功德資糧就具備,所謂「業事成辦」。

Namo Amituofo!

August 10 2021

Aug 10, 2021

Master Huijing’s Short Dharma Teachings about the Patriarchal Lineage of the Pure Land School – Master Tanluan

《淨宗傳承之曇鸞大師》

Every single recitation of the Name is the main cause of rebirth and the karma of assurance. This is why Master Tanluan says, “even ten times” is the same as “reciting the Buddha’s Name without interruption”. Thus, it is not Buddha-invocation of the Real Mark, Buddha-invocation of contemplative meditation, Buddha-invocation of perceiving images, recollecting the merit and virtues of the Buddha, or visualizing the Buddha’s Dharma body and light. It’s none of those!

(to be continued tomorrow)

只要念念稱名,就是往生的正因,往生的正定業。所以曇鸞大師也說所謂的「乃至十念」,就是「令聲不絕、稱念佛名」的乃至十念,而不是實相念佛的念,或觀想念佛的念,或觀相念佛的念,或是心中憶念佛功德的念,或是憶念佛的法身、光明,都不是。

Namo Amituofo!

August 9 2021

Aug 9, 2021

Master Huijing’s Short Dharma Teachings about the Patriarchal Lineage of the Pure Land School – the 18th Vow

淨宗傳承之第十八願

All of the vows of Amitabha Buddha are aimed at rebirth in the Pure Land (where they will become Buddhas) for sentient beings of the ten directions. The 18th Vow is the vow of rebirth through Amitabha-recitation. Through the 18th Vow sentient beings can be reborn by Amitabha-recitation; without the 18th Vow sentient beings cannot be reborn by Amitabha-recitation. In this respect, all of the other vows are meaningless.

So, at this point, the 18th Vow is truly a source-of-origin vow – the Fundamental Vow.

阿彌陀佛的種種願,都是為了十方眾生的往生成佛。第十八願是念佛往生之願,有此願,眾生就能念佛往生,沒有此願,眾生就不能念佛往生;不能念佛往生,其他的願就沒有存在的意義。

所以,就這一點來講,這第十八願才是真正的本願── 根本之願。

Namo Amituofo!

August 8 2021

Aug 8, 2021

Common Knowledge in Pure Land Teaching

淨土小常識

The Collection on Joy and Peace – is the two-fascicle collection written by Master Daochuo in the Tang dynasty. There are twelve chapters, which generally narrate the principal meanings of the Contemplation Sutra, comprehensively collect the commentaries on various sutras, and urge practitioners to aspire to be reborn in the Land of Peace and Joy.

The main objective of this book is to advise people to return to Pure Land practice in consideration of the era of the Dharma and the aptitude of the practitioners. It means that, during the Dharma-ending age, and with respect to the aptitudes of those committing offenses, it is advised that people should believe in and accept Amitabha’s deliverance and aspire to be reborn in Amitabha’s Pure Land.

《安樂集》 - 《安樂集》,唐道綽大師著,全二卷,共十二大門,內容為綜述《觀經》要義,廣集諸經論釋,勸生安樂。本集主旨在「約時被機,勸歸淨土」,就末法之時、造罪之機,而勸導必須信受彌陀救度,求生彌陀淨土。

Namo Amituofo!

August 7 2021

Aug 7, 2021

Master Huijing’s Short Dharma Teachings about Faith in Pure Land Buddhism

淨土信仰

Upon believing in the Buddha, one should learn the Buddhist teachings. The purpose of learning the Buddhist teachings is to become a Buddha. By recollecting and thinking of the Buddha, that person and the Buddha are joined together. Thus, he is assured of rebirth and becoming a Buddha, and is a true Buddhist disciple.

All Amitabha-reciters have the same beliefs, aspiration, and practice. They have the same goal even though they live in different places. Their minds are the same, and their practices and mission are the same. As the patriarch says, “As they exclusively recite Amitabha Buddha’s Name, they are close siblings even though they may be separated by the four seas.”

信佛必然學佛,學佛意在成佛,而憶佛念佛,即與佛同在,決定往生成佛,是真佛弟子。

念佛人,信同願同行同、目標同、目的同,身雖各處異地,然此心相同,在不同地方,行相同任務;猶如祖師云:「同一念佛無別道,遠通四海皆兄弟」。

Namo Amituofo!

August 6 2021

Aug 6, 2021

An excerpt from ‘In Praise of the Rite of Rebirth’ by Master Shandao

善導大師《往生禮讚》摘句

(continued)

I personally see and hear about monastics and householders in various areas that have different interpretations and practices. Some practice exclusive Amitabha-recitation and some pursue miscellaneous practices. However, among those who practice exclusively, ten out of ten will be reborn; while among those who practice a variety of teachings not even one out of a thousand will be reborn.

I sincerely hope all aspirants think seriously and thoroughly about these matters. Having been born as a human in this life and aspiring to be reborn in that land, you should diligently recite Amitabha’s Name while walking, standing, sitting, or lying down. Continue day and night until the end of your life.

Although practicing throughout your entire life seems a bit painful, when your life ends you will be reborn in the land of bliss. Then, you will enjoy unconditioned happiness for countless eons and achieve Buddhahood without further reincarnation. What could be more exciting than that?! One should deeply ponder this.

余比日自見聞:諸方道俗,解行不同,專雜有異。但使專意作者,十即十生;修雜不至心者,千中無一。

仰願一切往生人等,善自思量。已能今身,願生彼國者,行住坐臥,必須勵心克己,晝夜莫廢,畢命為期。上在一形,似如少苦;前念命終,後念即生彼國。長時永劫,常受無為法樂,乃至成佛,不經生死,豈非快哉!應知。

Namo Amituofo!

August 5 2021

Aug 5, 2021

An excerpt from ‘In Praise of the Rite of Rebirth’ by Master Shandao

善導大師《往生禮讚》摘句

(continued)

It is because one’s right mindfulness becomes lost due to interference / disturbance by assorted external factors.

It is because the cultivation of assorted virtues does not correspond to Amitabha’s Fundamental Vow.

It is because it does not abide by Shakyamuni Buddha’s teachings.

It is because it does not accord with the buddhas’ sayings.

It is because one’s mindfulness is always interrupted by scattered thoughts.

It is because remembrance and recollection are interrupted.

It is because one’s dedication and aspiration are not sincere and earnest.

It is because of the interruption by greed, hatred, and false views.

It is because of the lack of repentance and regrets for one’s faults.

It is because of the lack of continuous gratitude to Amitabha Buddha.

It is because of arrogance and irreverence, and the constant fixation on worldly fame and achieving benefits though reciting Namo Amitabha Buddha.

It is because of the distance from virtuous practitioners, and keeping oneself apart from others.

It is because one becomes attracted to the miscellaneous practices that oneself and others will be prevented from rebirth in the Land of Bliss. Why?

(to be continued tomorrow)

乃由雜緣亂動失正念故;與佛本願不相應故;與教相違故;

不順佛語故;繫念不相續故;憶想間斷故;迴願不慇重真實故;貪瞋諸見煩惱來間

斷故;無有慚愧懺悔心故;又不相續念報彼佛恩故; 心生輕慢,雖作業行,常與名

利相應故;人我自覆,不親近同行善知識故;樂近雜緣,自障障他往生正行故。何以故?

Namo Amitufuo!

August 4 2021

Aug 4, 2021

An excerpt from ‘In Praise of the Rite of Rebirth’ by Master Shandao

善導大師《往生禮讚》摘句

Ten out of ten, a hundred out of a hundred of those who sustain the practice of Amitabha-recitation, and recite consistently throughout their lives will be reborn. Why?

It is because one has right mindfulness without interference or disturbance from other assorted external factors.

It is because it corresponds to Amitabha’s Fundamental Vow.

It is because it does not violate Shakyamuni Buddha’s teaching.

It is because it accords with buddhas’ sayings.

If one gives up exclusive Amitabha-recitation and cultivates a variety of mixed virtues, the chance of being reborn is less than one or two out of a hundred, or three to five out of a thousand. Why?

(to be continued tomorrow)

若能如上,念念相續,畢命為期者,十即十生,百即百生。 何以故?

無外雜緣得正念故;與佛本願得相應故;不違教故;隨順佛語故。

若欲捨專修雜業者,百時稀得一二,千時稀得三五。 何以故?

Namo Amituofo!

August 3 2021

Aug 3, 2021

Master Yinguang’s Short Teaching about Exclusive Reliance on Buddha-power

印光大師「專仗佛力」之文(佛力不論斷證)

The Pure Land teaching relies exclusively on Buddha-power. Severing [delusions] and realization [of fruitions] are not taken into account. Only complete reliance on faith and aspiration is considered.

淨土一法,專仗佛力; 不論斷證,惟恃信願。

Namo Amituofo!

August 2 2021

Aug 2, 2021

Master Huijing’s Short Dharma Teachings Expressing the Perception of the Pure Land

淨土述懷

When you are sad, you should know I am sobbing too.

When you are happy, you should know I am delighted too.

As faithful Amitabha-reciters, we are always together, at all times and in all places.

當你悲傷時,應知我也在哭泣;

當你高興時,應知我也在歡喜;

信心念佛人,無論何時何地,我們都在一起。

Namo Amituofo!

August 1 2021

Aug 1, 2021

Master Huijing’s Short Dharma Teachings about the Patriarchal Lineage of the Pure Land School – Master Tanluan

《淨宗傳承之曇鸞大師》

The general meaning of the Fundamental Vow according to Master Tanluan:

The Easy Path – Through having faith in Amitabha Buddha, aspiring to be reborn in his Pure Land, and reliance on the Buddha’s vow power; one can attain rebirth in that Pure Land. Through reliance on the Buddha’s power, the practitioner gains entry to the correct, direct and ascertained track within the Mahayana teachings. “Correct, direct and ascertained” means Avinivartaniya. It is achieving happiness with the ease of sailing aboard a ship.This explains the 18th Vow.

曇鸞大師的「本願取意文」說:

易行道者:謂但以信佛因緣,願生淨土,乘佛願力,便得往生彼清淨土。佛力住持,即入大乘正定之聚。正定即是阿鞞跋致,譬如水路,乘船則樂。這個都是在解釋第十八願。

Namo Amituofo!

July 31 2021

Jul 31, 2021

Master Huijing’s Short Dharma Teachings about the Patriarchal Lineage of the Pure Land Teaching – the 18th Vow

淨宗傳承之第十八願

Amitabha Buddha abundantly made 48 great vows. His sole purpose was to deliver all sentient beings of the ten directions. However, only the 18th Vow can meet the purpose of universally delivering sentient beings of the ten directions, and perfectly and completely satisfy Amitabha’s original intent. So, the 18th Vow is the core and the fundamental vow among the 48 vows, and it is also where the real life of Amitabha Buddha is located.

阿彌陀佛廣發四十八大願,目的全為普救十方眾生,可是只有第十八願才能達到普救十方眾生的目的,才能圓滿阿彌陀佛的本懷。所以第十八願是四十八願的核心,是四十八願的根本願,也是阿彌陀佛真正生命之所在。

Namo Amituofo!

July 30 2021

Jul 30, 2021

Common Knowledge in Pure Land Teaching

淨土小常識

The Commentary on the Treatise of Rebirth - It is also known as the Commentary on the Treatise, or the Treatise on the Commentary. It is a book written by Master Tanluan of the Northern Wei dynasty, to comment on the Treatise of Rebirth by Vasubandhu Bodhisattva. There are two fascicles in this commentary. The first fascicle explains the Gathas and expounds the Teaching of the Fivefold Invocation. The second fascicle is a narrative that is divided into ten chapters.

In the beginning, Master Tanluan differentiates the Buddhist teachings in terms of “self-power” and “other-power.” In the conclusion, he introduces the source of the teaching. He identifies “the Buddha’s power, in accordance with the Fundamental Vow,” as the main lifeline which links different aspects of the entire Commentary.

The objective of the Commentary is to unfold the augmentative cause / condition of Amitabha’s power, as stated in the Fundamental Vow, and to advise and guide all sentient beings to be reborn in the Pure Land with recourse to the Buddha’s power.

《往生論註》 - 《往生論註》,簡稱《論註》或《註論》,北魏曇鸞大師著,為註解天親菩薩《往生論》之書。全註二卷,上卷解釋偈頌,明其五念;下卷解釋長行,分為十章。

自開章之 「自他二力判」,至結論之「覈求其本釋」,始終以「佛本願力」為主線, 貫穿全註。

《往生論註》的主旨,在揭示彌陀本願力之增上緣,勸導一切眾生乘佛願力,往生淨土。

Namo Amituofo!

July 29 2021

Jul 29, 2021

Master Huijing’s Short Dharma Teachings about Faith in Pure Land Buddhism

淨土信仰

“The Text about the Pure Land, written by Householder Longshu,” is from a book written by Householder Wang Ri-Xiu, and is the product of his entire life’s work. In this book he used various kinds of analogies and expedient teachings to address different classes of people. His objective was to guide them to study, accept, and happily understand that the Pure Land teaching is the only teaching they can rely on.

Moreover, the teachings introduced in this book are supported by facts and through classical stories.

《龍舒淨土文》這一本書是王日休居士的畢生力作,書中引用種種方便善巧, 對每一階層的人,上至王公大臣,下至一般販夫走卒,都有善巧方便的引導文來引導他們進入淨土法門,讓他們能夠心開意解的覺得:唉!必須要學淨土,淨土才是他們所可依靠的。

這一本書就有這樣的效果,而且,有理有事,不但有淨土的教理,更進而引用典故來說明教理。

Namo Amituofo!

July 28 2021

Jul 28, 2021

An excerpt from “In Praise of the Rite of Rebirth” by Master Shandao

善導大師《往生禮讚》摘句

Questions: All Buddhas realize the Threefold Body, and their fruition in wisdom and compassion are equally complete. Thus, there are no differences in these respects. Because of this, we should be able to be reborn in a Buddha’s realm if we prostrate to and recite any Buddha’s name. Why does Shakyamuni Buddha then only praise the Buddha in the West, and advise us to exclusively prostrate to and recite his Name exclusively? What is the meaning of this teaching?

Answer: What all Buddhas realize is indeed the same and equal. However, with respect to their vows and practices, each Buddha has his own causal conditions. Amitabha Buddha made a profound and weighty vow to embrace all beings with his light and transform them through his Name. He asks only that they have faith, aspire to rebirth in his Pure Land, and recite his Name.

Whether one recites for an entire lifetime, ten times, or even just once, attaining rebirth is easy because of the power of Amitabha’s Vow. That is why Shakyamuni and all other Buddhas advise us to aspire to be reborn in the Western Land, and not other pure lands.

問曰:一切諸佛,三身同證,悲智果圓,亦應無二;隨方禮念,課稱一佛,亦應得生。何故偏歎西方,勸專禮念等,有何義也?

答曰:諸佛所證,平等是一;若以願行來收,非無因緣。然彌陀世尊,本發深重誓願,以光明名號,攝化十方,但使信心求念;上盡一形,下至十聲、一聲等,以佛願力,易得往生。是故釋迦,及以諸佛,勸向西方,為別異耳。

Namo Amituofo!

July 27 2021

Jul 27, 2021

Master Huijing’s Short Dharma Teachings about Education for Living

生活教育

Learning through relationships is a great learning experience. A good human relationship is a necessary ingredient for having fortune in our lives. There are four very common phrases that all people know. However, not many people care about them. If they care about their relationships, they must always be kept in their minds and used in speech. These are true words and a wonderful curative medicine for improving our human relationships. They are: I’m sorry, excuse me, thank you, and I love you. Try to use these four phrases often in all of your inter-actions.

怎樣處理人際關係是人生的大學問,好的人際關係是人生幸福必不可少的因素。有四句話,很普通,人人皆知,但幾乎人人不那麼重視;如果重視的話,經常想在心裏,說在口邊,那可以說是我們處理人際關係的四句真言,靈丹妙藥。這四句話就是:對不起,請原諒,謝謝你,我愛你。試著在任何情況下都說這四句話。

Namo Amituofo!

July 26 2021

Jul 26, 2021

Master Yinguang’s Short Teaching offering the Advice of Practicing the Particular Teaching and Discarding Self-Power

印光大師「全是佛力」之文(坐船過海之喻)

A grain of sand will sink immediately when placed in water. However, even If tons of gravel and boulders are placed on a big ship, they will easily be transported to other places without sinking. Gravel and boulders resemble sentient beings’ heavy karma, and the big ship resembles the power of Amitabha’s infinite compassion.

If we do not recite Amitabha’s Name but rely on our own power of cultivation to end being trapped in the cycle of birth-and-death, we must reach the state in which our karma is completely extinguished and we reach a meditative state of emptiness. We cannot be liberated from the cycle of birth-and-death if we have even a tiny shred of affliction and delusive karma remaining. We are like grains of sand that sink to the bottom of water, in the way that a grain of sand cannot get out of water on its own.

譬如一顆沙子,入水即沉,縱有數千萬斤石,裝於大火輪船中,即可不沉而運於他處,以隨意使用也。石喻眾生之業力深重,大火輪喻彌陀之慈力廣大。

若不念佛,仗自己修持之力,欲了生死,須到業盡情空地位方可。否則縱令煩惱惑業斷得只有一絲毫,亦不能了,喻如極小之沙子,亦必沉於水中,決不能自己出於水外。

Namo Amituofo!

July 25 2021

Jul 25, 2021

Master Huijing’s Short Dharma Teachings Expressing the Perception of the Pure Land

淨土述懷

I do not rely on blessings, because no blessing is better than Amitabha-recitation.

I am not scared of karma, because no karma can obstruct Amitabha.

Though I have a myriad of virtues I do not rely on them, because no virtue surpasses the single practice of Amitabha-recitation.

Though I have afflictions I do not worry, because no affliction can obstruct Amitabha’s deliverance.

福不足憑,無福能勝念佛故;

業不足畏,無業能礙彌陀故。

吾雖萬行亦不憑,無勝念佛一行故;

吾雖煩惱亦不憂,無礙彌陀救度故。

Namo Amituofo!

July 24 2021

Jul 24, 2021

Master Huijing’s Short Dharma Teachings about the Patriarchal Lineage of the Pure Land School – Nagarjuna Bodhisattva

《淨宗傳承之天親菩薩》

(continued)

For example, apart from the main practice of Name-recitation, it is necessary to perfect the Six Paramitas as the supplementary practices; a person can be reborn by combining the main and supplementary practices. Apart from Name-recitation, a practitioner is required to have singleness of mind regarding law, singleness of mind regarding phenomena, proficiency in self-power, and concentration even during sleep. Without these he cannot be reborn.

However, when referring to the 18th Vow, the text addresses accomplishment of the Vow and instructions to Maitreya. The interpretation of the patriarchal bodhisattvas Nagarjuna and Vasubandhu adds no other conditions for rebirth. It is clearly and accurately stipulated that the exclusive practice of recitation of Amitabha’s Name is already sufficient to enter the state of assurance instantly. It is already expediently satisfied through the great treasure of Amitabha’s merit and virtues. This is known as “practicing as such”, and “matching with the practice as such.”

譬如說除了稱名的正行之外,還要有六度為助行,正助和合才能夠往生;或者是稱名之外,還要理一心、事一心,或是功夫成片、夢寐一如......等等,否則不能往生。

可是我們不論從經文──第十八願的願文、第十八願成就文、咐囑彌勒文來看也好,或從龍樹、天親菩薩等祖師的解釋來看也好,都沒有那些附帶條件,而且很明確,乾脆俐落,都是說只要專稱彌陀佛名,就已經即入必定,已經速滿足功德大寶海,就是如實修行,跟如實修行相應。

Namo Amituofo!

July 23 2021

Jul 23, 2021

Master Huijing’s Short Dharma Teachings about the Patriarchal Lineage of the Pure Land School – Vasubandhu Bodhisattva

《淨宗傳承之天親菩薩》

Vasubandhu Bodhisattva explains the general meaning of the Fundamental Vow as follows: through taking refuge in the power of Amitabha’s Fundamental Vow those who have little time to live can be immediately saved, and receive a great treasure of merit as vast as an ocean.

At the same time, he also says, “ when reciting the Name of that Tathagata one receives the wisdom form of the Tathagata’s light. This is also inherent in the meaning of the Name. These two texts directly explain the merit and virtues of Name-recitation according to the 18th Vow.

In mixed forms of Pure Land teaching, even though they talk about rebirth in the Land of Bliss through Amitabha-recitation, they often complicate matters by adding other practices as conditions for rebirth.

(to be continued tomorrow)

天親菩薩的「本願取意文」說:觀佛本願力,遇無空過者,能令速滿足,功德大寶海。同時又說:稱彼如來名,如彼如來光明智相,如彼名義,欲如實修行相應故。這兩段文也是直接的在解釋第十八願稱名的功德。

一般淨土法門,雖然也是說念佛往生極樂世界,可是除了稱名以外,還附帶種種條件。

Namo Amituofo!

July 22 2021

Jul 22, 2021

Master Huijing’s Short Dharma Teachings about the Patriarchal Lineage of the Pure Land School – the 18th Vow

淨宗傳承之第十八願

The way the Pure Land Teaching was able to become a School was through its fundamental source or origin. Its origin is the 48 great vows abundantly made by Bodhisattva Dharmakara. Once he was able to bring those vows to fruition, he became Amitabha Buddha. The 18th vow is called the Fundamental Vow, and through it all sentient beings in the ten directions are able to be delivered to Amitabha’s Pure Land, and there become Buddhas.

淨土宗之所以成為淨土宗,它有個根本、有個起源。它的起源就是阿彌陀佛在因地為法藏菩薩的時候,為十方眾生廣發誓必救度的四十八大願;它的根本就是四十八大願當中的第十八願。

Namo Amituofo!

July 21 2021

Jul 21, 2021

Common Knowledge in Pure Land Teaching

淨土小常識

The Chapter on the Easy Path - It is the Chapter Nine of the Commentary on the Ten Stages Sutra, written by the first patriarch of the Pure Land School, Nagarjuna Bodhisattva.

The Chapter is composed of two sets of questions and answers. The first is to differentiate the Easy Path from other Buddhist teachings. The second is to differentiate the Easy Practice of Amitabha-recitation from the easy practices of other Buddhas and Bodhisattvas.

The objective of the Chapter is to guide all Mahayana practitioners to give up the difficult teachings, adopt the easy one, and return to Name- recitation in accord with the Fundamental Vow of Amitabha. Its aim is to achieve non-retrogression in the present life as part of the Bodhisattva Way, and the method is holding fast to recitation of the Name.

《易行品》 - 淨土門尊崇的第一部祖典。為龍樹菩薩所撰述之《十住毗婆沙論》第九品。全品由兩重問答組成,第一重問答從佛法無量門中決出易行道, 第二重問答從諸佛菩薩易行中突出彌陀之易行。

本品的主旨,在引導通途大乘行者捨難取易,歸入彌陀本願稱名。其目標是菩薩道之「現生不退」,方法是「執持稱名號」。

Namo Amituofo!