August 28, 2023

Aug 28, 2023

The Patriarchal Lineage of the Pure Land Teaching - Master Shandao

善導大師

It is not unusual for us to misunderstand when Master Shandao explains “sentient beings in the ten directions” as “all good and evil ordinary beings”. He did this because the scope of sentient beings in the ten directions is too broad, and this may cause us to believe that we are excluded from Amitabha’s deliverance.

This is because we think we are of the low level, and not good enough to be included. So, Master Shandao is straightforward when he includes “ALL good and evil ordinary beings” to explain “sentient beings in the ten directions”. It gives us absolute hope, knowing that “sentient beings in the ten directions” INCLUDES ME.

(to be continued tomorrow)

善導大師用「一切善惡凡夫」來解釋十方眾生,對我們而言是很貼切的,也讓我們容易掌握。因為十方眾生看起來範圍太廣了,我們會誤以為其他的眾生能夠往生,恐怕我沒有份,遺漏了我,因為,我是一個卑賤低下、惡多善少的凡夫,恐怕是沒有份吧?所以善導大師就直截了當的用「一切善惡凡夫」來顯示十方眾生的涵義,給我們很大的、絕對性的希望,曉得十方眾生就是指「我」。

Namo Amituofo!

August 27, 2023

Aug 27, 2023

Master Huijing’s Short Dharma Teaching about Classification of Teachings – the Two Practices (Primary and Miscellaneous)

正雜二行判

In classifying all of the teachings of the Buddha, the practices for rebirth are called exclusive practices and all others are called miscellaneous practices. The exclusive practices are the Five Primary Practices, and all other practices are called Miscellaneous Practices.

When looking at the teachings more precisely, only name-recitation, the karma of assurance, is an exclusive practice. The dual practices (primary and supportive) are regarded as Miscellaneous Practices, for practitioners who wish to rely on their own power and dedicate the merits attained through the Five Primary Practices for rebirth.

With respect to the dual-practices, primary and miscellaneous, they are regarded as miscellaneous if they practice the Primary and Miscellaneous together. Moreover, with respect to “seeking benefits in the present life through exclusive name-recitation”, this falls within the scope of the Miscellaneous Practices.

There are practitioners who exclusively recite the Name of Amitabha but do not seek rebirth in the Land of Bliss. Instead, they pray for: welfare in the present life, being reborn as a human in the next life as an eminent monk who can be enlightened upon hearing the Dharma, and comprehensively delivers sentient beings. All practices within the above category are considered Miscellaneous.

從「大判門」來講,往生行有「專修」跟「雜修」。「專修」就是五種正行,五正行以外的通通是「雜修」,也就是「雜行」。

從「細判門」來講,只有稱名念佛正定業是專修;「助正兼行」,是說五種正行通通去做,想依靠自己所修五正行之力用來迴向,這樣也是雜修。

至於「正雜兼行」,正行跟雜行一起去修,也是雜修;甚至所謂「專名祈現」──雖然專稱念這一句名號,可是不是為了往生極樂世界,而是為了祈求現世福利,或是祈求來世再生而為人,甚至做為高僧一聞千悟廣度眾生,這都是屬於雜修的範圍。

Namo Amituofo!

August 26, 2023

Aug 26, 2023

Common Knowledge in Pure Land Teaching

淨土小常識

Elimination of the Settlement of Mind

(continued)

The Three States of Mind are very important in terms of the 18th Vow, why are they eliminated? About 800 years ago, Master Honen established the Pure Land School in Japan, entirely based on Master Shandao’s teachings. In response to this question he replied, “By simply believing that a sentient being is assured of rebirth by reciting (Amitabha’s Name), he will already have the Three States of Mind. “Thus, this part (“sincerely and joyfully entrusting in Amitabha, and wishing to be reborn in that land”) is eliminated with no further explanation necessary.

Master Honen’s answer was so simple and clear! It beautifully explains Master Shandao’s teaching in full, not partially, and makes it easier to understand.

略安心

這「三心」對第十八願來講是非常重要的,為什麼會省略掉呢?八百多年前,完全依善導大師的淨土教理創立淨土宗的法然上人回答說:「只要相信眾生稱念必定往生極樂世界,這樣自然就具足三心、具足『至心信樂,欲生我國』了,為了顯示這個道理,所以就省略這部分沒有另外解釋。」

法然上人解答得很簡要明瞭,讓我們清楚善導大師這樣的解釋並非斷章取義,而是更容易理解三心,當下能夠一目瞭然。

Namo Amituofo!

August 25, 2023

Aug 25, 2023

Common Knowledge in Pure Land Teaching

淨土小常識

Elimination of the Settlement of Mind

Master Shandao focused on Amitabha’s 18th Vow on many occasions in his work entitled, “The Five Volumes and the Nine Fascicles.” His explanations using 48 Chinese words indicate the root, the core and the essence of Amitabha’s 48 vows. That is why it is so famous and acclaimed among Buddhist works. The 48 word explanation in Chinese is as follows:

If, when I achieve Buddhahood, sentient beings of the ten directions who recite my name, even ten times, should fail to be born there, may I not attain perfect Enlightenment.

Today Amitabha is before us, having achieved Buddhahood. We should know that his Fundamental Vow has been unequivocally fulfilled. If sentient beings recite his name, they will certainly be reborn in the Land of Bliss.

The text can be divided into two parts. The first 24 words explain the 18th Vow, and the last 24 words explain the accomplishment of the 18th Vow. In the first part of the explanation, the settlement of mind is eliminated.

“The settlement of mind” refers to “to sincerely and joyfully entrust themselves and wish to be reborn in my land”. These are called the “Three States of Mind”, also known as the “Threefold Faith”.

(to be continued tomorrow)

略安心

善導大師最重視阿彌陀佛四十八願當中的第十八願,其五部九卷很多地方都在解釋第十八願,其中的「四十八字願成釋」,顯示四十八願的根本、核心、精華,所以特別有名,也特別受讚歎。四十八字願成釋之文:

若我成佛,十方眾生,稱我名號,下至十聲,若不生者,不取正覺;彼佛今現,在世成佛,當知本誓,重願不虛,眾生稱念,必得往生。

此文可分成前後兩段,前面二十四個字解釋第十八願,後面二十四個字解釋第十八願成就文。前段解釋是略過了「安心」,「安心」是指第十八願之「至心、信樂、欲生我國」,稱為「三心」,也叫作「三信」。

Namo Amituofo!

August 24, 2023

Aug 24, 2023

A Verse offering Compassionate Advice and Cautions - quoted from ‘In Praise of Pratyutpanna’ by Master Shandao

善導大師《般舟讚》慈悲勸誡

Because of the differences in aptitudes and capacities among sentient beings, there are as many as 84,000 teachings in Buddhism.

If a person wishes to find a dwelling place for eternal settlement, he should find the path that leads him to the True Teaching.

Though all teachings are different, these are called Gradual Teachings. It takes ten thousand eons to realize them through cultivation and hardship.

However, if a person exclusively recites Amitabha’s Name, he will be instantly welcomed and transported by the Buddha just before his last breath.

Just as it takes a certain amount of time to finish a meal, it takes a thousand eons to eliminate greed and hatred.

The path towards the human and heavenly realms are blocked by greed and hatred, and people are dragged into the Three Wretched Realms and the Four Paths.

佛教多門八萬四,正為眾生機不同;

欲覓安身常住處,先求要行入真門。

門門不同名漸教,萬劫苦行證無生;

畢命為期專念佛,須臾命斷佛迎將。

一食之時尚有間,如何萬劫不貪瞋,

貪瞋障受人天路,三惡四趣內安身。

Namo Amituofo!

August 23, 2023

Aug 23, 2023

Master Huijing’s Short Dharma Teaching about Impermanence

慧淨法師之無常法語

All accumulations will disperse. All respect and status will end. All gatherings will be dismissed. Whenever there is birth, it is followed by death.

積聚皆消散,崇高必墮落,會合要當離,有生無不死。

Namo Amituofo!

August 22, 2023

Aug 22, 2023

General Confusion and Misunderstandings by Amitabha-Reciters seeking Rebirth - By Master Jingzong

淨宗法師談念佛人的糊塗認識

# 13 - “If there are no auspicious marks, he will fail to be reborn”. Is this true?

Comment: (continued)

Even if a person appears to be diligent, vigorous and concentrated in his practice, we still may not know whether he has faith and the aspiration to be reborn. Does he really aspire to be reborn? We don’t know. Only he knows. So, only that person can know whether he is assured of rebirth. We can only see the superficial signs.

Generally speaking, if a person really has an aspiration for rebirth, exclusively recites the Buddha’s Name, and passes away peacefully, (with a smile on his face, a soft body, warmth at the top of the head, etc., it can be judged that he is assured of rebirth with no problem. Another sign is his appearance in the dreams of his children or siblings. These auspicious marks are clear, just as they are described in our teachings.

It is said that Amitabha Buddha comes to receive us when we are near the end-of-life, encircles us in his infinite light, and transports us to his Pure Land on a lotus platform.

淨宗法師 - 念佛人的糊塗認識

其十三:“沒有瑞相他就沒有往生。” 真的嗎?

答:(續上)

至於說這個人到底是不是信願專修念佛?外表可能看起來他很精進、很勇猛,也在專修,他內心裏邊是不是信願呢?是不是真的願往生呢?我們不知道。只有他才知道。所以,到底有沒有往生,只有這個人他自己才知道,我們只能是看外表瑞相。

大體說起來,這個人如果平時確實有願往生的心,也在專修念佛,走的時候也很安詳,甚至面貌喜悅、身體柔軟,頭頂溫熱,那麼,這樣判斷他應該是往生的,應該沒有問題的──教理也明確,瑞相也鮮明。

如果說到看到阿彌陀佛來接引、蓮花來接引、佛光來接引,那更是證據,這是臨終的證據。或者說這個人已經往生之後,又托夢來告訴他的兒女,一次、二次、三次地托同樣的夢,或者跟幾個兒女都托同樣的夢,那也毫無疑問他是往生了。

Namo Amituofo!

August 21, 2023

Aug 21, 2023

General Confusion and Misunderstandings by Amitabha-Reciters seeking Rebirth - By Master Jingzong

淨宗法師談念佛人的糊塗認識

# 13 - “If there are no auspicious signs, he will fail to be reborn”. Is this true?

Comment:

One’s rebirth cannot be judged by trivial events or marks. Our judgment should be based on matching our mindset with the teachings in the Sutras. In accordance with the teachings of the Infinite Life Sutra, the Contemplation Sutra and the Amitabha Sutra, a person is assured of rebirth through Amitabha-recitation, faith, and aspiration in the present life. Therefore, if a person simply passes away , with no splendid or auspicious signs, we cannot say he is not reborn.

In Shijiazhuang in China, there was an old couple who were Amitabha-reciters. When the old woman passed away, her bones were stiff. Her husband took care of her body; but, was not strong enough to move it. He said, “Oh dear, you have already been reborn in the West. Now, I cannot move your body. Your bones are so stiff that I cannot dress you properly. Can you please soften a bit?” As soon as he finished asking, her body became soft.

If you judge her rebirth by her body’s softness, you cannot explain why her body was not soft (not reborn), and became soft later (being reborn). Actually, she had been reborn before her body was softened. She didn’t show that auspicious sign, but softened her body immediately upon the request of her husband. This actually happened.

(to be continued tomorrow)

淨宗法師 - 念佛人的糊塗認識

其十三:“沒有瑞相他就沒有往生。” 真的嗎?

答:

不可以依外表之相來判斷,還是以內心裏邊跟教理相吻合作為依據。根據《無量壽經》、《觀無量壽經》和《阿彌陀經》的教理,平時是信願專修念佛的,那麼他一定往生。比如說他走得很平淡,也沒有什麼殊勝、了不起的瑞相──這個也不敢講他一定沒有往生。

石家莊有老夫妻兩個人念佛,老太婆走的時候,骨節都是硬的,只有老頭兒一個人給她弄,老頭兒一個人也沒有力氣,就說了:“某某人,你都往生西方了,我現在也搬不動你,你身體這麼硬,我也沒辦法給你穿衣服,你看看,你能不能軟一點?我好給你穿衣服。”這個話一說完,身體馬上就軟下來了。

如果你要以身體柔軟判斷她有沒有往生的話,她先身體不軟,你說沒有往生;後來馬上就軟了,又說往生了。其實,先前就往生了,只是沒有現這個相,結果她家的老頭兒懇求她,馬上就改軟了。這個也是有的。

(再續)

Namo Amituofo!

August 20, 2023

Aug 20, 2023

The Patriarchal Lineage of the Pure Land Teaching - Master Shandao

善導大師

We must study the Three Pure Land Sutras and the explanation of the Fundamental Vow, in order to understand, believe in, and accept the teachings. In addition, we should practice the exclusive recitation of Amitabha’s Name according to Master Shandao’s teachings.

不研究淨土教理則已,不專修淨土法門則已,凡是要專修淨土、研究淨土,就必須依善導大師本願取意文的解釋,去信受它、去明瞭它,進而依善導大師所解釋的去實踐。

Namo Amituofo!

August 19, 2023

Aug 19, 2023

Master Huijing’s Short Dharma Teaching about Classification of Teachings – the Two Practices (Primary and Miscellaneous)

正雜二行判

There are five kinds of Primary Practices. Three of them (sutra-recitation, observation, and prostration) and the last two (acclaiming and making offerings) are related to Amitabha Buddha and the Land of Bliss. However, none of these is the practice specified in Amitabha’s Fundamental Vow, and why they are called “supportive karma”. Only name-recitation is the karma for assured rebirth, as specified in Amitabha’s Fundamental Vow. That is why it is called the “karma of assurance”.

Nevertheless, this doesn’t mean the Supportive Karma is unimportant. The purpose of the Supportive Karma is to give all Pure Land practitioners clear direction, in order to accept the Karma of Assurance, and exclusively recite Amitabha’s name. So, its ultimate aim is to directly guide practitioners to accept the Karma of Assurance . Thus, if we don’t know the meaning of the Karma of Assurance, we need the Supportive Karma. If we do know, we should put the Supportive Karma aside and exclusively practice the Karma of Assurance. By simply and exclusively reciting Amitabha’s Name, one’s rebirth is assured, because it accords with Amitabha’s Fundamental Vow.

正行有五種,其中前三(讀誦、觀察、禮拜)後一(讚歎、供養),皆與阿彌陀佛及極樂淨土有關,故名正行;然畢竟非彌陀本願之行,故名「助業」,唯有「稱名念佛」是彌陀本願所誓必得往生淨土唯一之業,故名「正定業」,所謂「依佛本願故」,其餘為助業。然此助業並非稱名正行之念佛功德薄少,需要助業補助,助業之目的乃是要給淨宗行者指出直達正定業之方向,引導行者專依正定業之念佛,其最終目的是要直取正定業。故若未知正定業之義,則須助業;若已知正定業之義,則應傍置助業,專行正業;只要專稱佛名,必得往生,順彌陀本願故。

Namo Amituofo!

August 18, 2023

Aug 18, 2023

Common Knowledge in Pure Land Teaching

淨土小常識

To Joyfully Become a Buddha in this Life (continued)

People of any kind, with different occupations, at different ages, with different levels of wisdom, and different work loads can joyfully become Buddhas. They need only recite Namo Amituofo, according to their capacities and circumstances, without changing their current lifestyles. To become a Buddha by reciting Amitabha’s Name is easy, joyful, safe and secure. Lotus friends, if you want to practice joyfully and quickly become a Buddha, recite Amitabha’s Name.

一生輕鬆成佛 (續)

有這三「不必」,士農工商,年老年少,智慧愚笨,忙人閒人......任何人,在不改變原有生活狀態的情況下,只要能隨緣隨力開口念佛,都能輕鬆成佛哦!念佛成佛,輕鬆穩當。想要快樂修行、快速成佛的兄弟們快來念佛吧!

Namo Amituofo!

August 13, 2023

Aug 13, 2023

Short Dharma Teaching about Impermanence

慧淨法師之無常法語

Time passes as quickly as a flying arrow, and beauty fades away unseen.

In just a flash of time we turn from young to old.

光陰如射箭,紅顏暗裏遷,青春到老年,忽覺一瞬間。

Namo Amituofo!

August 17, 2023

Aug 17, 2023

Common Knowledge in Pure Land Teaching

淨土小常識

To Joyfully Become a Buddha in this Life (continued)

Sentient beings who wish to be reborn in the Western Pure Land and become Buddhas have three kinds of “unnecessaries.

1.It is unnecessary to cultivate the uncountable practices; but, only recite Namo Amituofo. There is no minimum requirement, no money is involved, and it requires far less effort. As long as you recite Amitabha’s Name, you will be reborn at the end of this life.

2.It is unnecessary to practice for innumerable eons, but only this one lifetime. You will then be joyfully received by the Buddha, leave the Six Realms, and achieve Buddhahood.

3.It is unnecessary to worry about demonic obstructions, or falling and having setbacks, because you will be instantly embraced and protected by the Buddha’s light as soon as you recite Amitabha’s Name. Thereafter, you only move forward until you become a Buddha.

(to be continued tomorrow)

一生輕鬆成佛 (續)

所以,眾生通過念佛往生西方淨土成佛,有三「不必」:

第一,不必修那些數不清的行法,只需開口念「南無阿彌陀佛」,沒有任何門檻,不花錢,不費力,只要能念佛,最終都能往生。

第二,不必經歷數不清的劫數,只此一生,臨終即被佛迎接,開開心心出六道、成佛道。

第三,不必擔心中途遇到魔障,或者退墮下來,念佛的當下就得到佛光的攝取保護,從此只進不退,直至成佛。

Namo Amituofo!

August 16, 2023

Aug 16, 2023

Common Knowledge in Pure Land Teaching

淨土小常識

To Joyfully Become a Buddha in this Life (continued)

Nagarjuna Bodhisattva, the de facto founder of the Eight Schools of Buddhism says, “There are numerous Buddhist ways to teach people to become Buddhas. They can be divided into two groups - the Difficult Path and the Easy Path.He asked, how can people understand “difficult” and “easy”? To answer he used an analogy - " to reach a distant land on foot is painful, but sailing on a ship is joyful”.

Walking and sailing were the two means of transport in ancient times. The former is hard, slow, and risky. As said by the poet Libei, “the Land route is difficult, the land route is difficult. Many wrong ways, where am I now?” The latter is easy, speedy and safe. As said by the poet Libei, “ Say farewell to the city in the morning and sail a thousand miles in a day. While hearing the monkeys’ voices along the shores, ten thousand mountains have passed.”

Nagarjuna Bodhisattva says: the Pure Land teaching is an Easy Path, and all other teachings belong to the Difficult Path. It is difficult because a practitioner has to bear all the burdens, and handle all the circumstances along the path with his own power. It is hard, slow and risky. On the Difficult Path, a practitioner has to rely on his own power all the way through. However, ordinary beings are aggregates of greed, hatred, and delusion, particularly in the Dharma-Ending Age. They commit serious karmic offenses, and have no power to cultivate.

On the Easy Path, it is easy because all of the burdens are loaded on board. The practitioner makes use of other means and other power, which makes it easy, effective and safe. On the Easy Path, a practitioner relies on Amitabha’s power all the way through. With his great compassion and great vow power, the Buddha assures every Amitabha-reciter of rebirth in this life. Once reborn, they are assured of becoming Buddhas. If you ask Libei to ascend to the roof of a 100 story building, do you think he would choose to walk up the stairs?

一生輕鬆成佛 (續)

八宗之祖的龍樹菩薩說:佛法中有無量的法門教人成佛,但總體來說只有兩大類:難行道和易行道。這難和易到底是怎樣的體驗呢?龍樹菩薩打了個比喻:「陸道步行則苦,水道乘船則樂。」古代常用的交通方式,一是陸路,二是水路。

前者艱辛、緩慢、兇險。像李白說的:「行路難,行路難,多歧路,今安在?」後者輕鬆、快速、安全。如李白的詩:「朝辭白帝彩雲間,千里江陵一日還;兩岸猿聲啼不住,輕舟已過萬重山。」

龍樹菩薩說:淨土法門就是這樣的易行道,淨土法門之外的法門統統屬於難行道。所謂難行,難在自己要背負所有重擔,靠一己之力應對各種路況,所以艱辛、緩慢、兇險;難行道從頭到尾靠的是凡夫自己的力量。人是貪瞋癡的集合體,尤其是末法時代的眾生,造業兇猛,修行無力。

所謂易行,易在把自身及所背負的重量都放在船上,借物力、憑他力,所以輕鬆、高效、安穩。淨土法門,從頭到尾靠的都是阿彌陀佛的力量,佛以其大慈大悲、大願大力,保證每一個念佛眾生當生就能往生,往生必然成佛。如果讓李大詩人今天登頂一百層的大樓,你覺得他會選擇爬樓梯嗎?

Namo Amituofo!

August 15, 2023

Aug 15, 2023

Common Knowledge in Pure Land Teaching

淨土小常識

To Joyfully Become a Buddha in this Life

The ultimate purpose of Buddhism is to enable all sentient beings to become Buddhas. What do you think is required to become a Buddha through cultivation? Our faces become scarred from upholding the precepts, doing seated meditation, reciting sutras, or being an ascetic in a cave, etc. People may run away when they see us from afar, and say, “ Do I want to become a Buddha in this way? Forget it, I don’t want to be a Buddha!” To become a Buddha in this way is not a simple matter. It is more like the master and his disciples who encountered the 81 jeopardies in their Journey to the West.

The Buddhist sutras say, “ A sentient being who aspires to become a Buddha must realize: the Ten Faiths, the Ten Dwellings, the Ten Practices, the Ten Transferences, and the Equal and Wonderful Enlightenment. There are 52 Bodhisattva stages in total. In this process, one must master all kinds of practices, no matter how difficult they are to practice or tolerate. It takes an almost infinite period of time.

Please note, this period of time is calculated on the assumption that the practitioner never retrogresses in the process. In this long period of time, he may: encounter demons and get stuck in demonic realms, or fall back to once again become an Arhat, or fall into the jeopardy of emptiness in the Seventh Ground of Bodhisattvas. Thus, the patriarch says with emotion,” To aspire to and seek the Buddhist Way is as difficult as lifting Three Thousand Great Cosmos.

Among all of the Buddha’s teachings, is there any one that enables us to become Buddhas in a joyful and secure way? Did Shakyamuni Buddha leave us a secret way to easily become Buddhas? I will tell you; the answer is “ Definitely!”

(to be continued tomorrow)

一生輕鬆成佛

佛教的終極目的是要讓一切眾生成佛。說到修行成佛,你想到了什麼?戒疤、打坐、誦經、深山、苦行......有人遠遠望見就嚇跑啦:「這樣子才能成佛,這佛不成也罷!」要成佛?談何容易!怎麼著也得像西遊記裏面師徒經歷九九八十一難吧?

通常來說,這麼理解也是對的,佛經上說:眾生從初發心成佛到最終成佛,要攀爬十信、十住、十行、十迴向、十地、等覺、妙覺,共計菩薩五十二個階位。這個過程中,需要經歷種種修法,難行能行,難忍能忍,總耗時累計長達三大阿僧祇劫。

注意,這可是以修行者只進不退為前提哦!在這漫長的時間裡,你可能招陰魔,可能撞魔境,或是中途退墮成阿羅漢,或是墮入七地沉空難。因此,祖師感慨說:發願求佛道,重於舉三千大千世界!

那麼佛教這麼多法門中,到底有沒有一個能夠輕輕鬆鬆、安安穩穩就成佛的?釋迦牟尼佛走之前沒給我們這樣的凡夫另闢蹊徑留下什麼簡單的成佛秘笈嗎?悄悄告訴你吧,答案是肯定的!

Namo Amituofo!

August 14, 2023

Aug 14, 2023

A Verse sharing Compassionate Advice and Cautions - quoted from ‘In Praise of Pratyutpanna’ by Master Shandao

善導大師《般舟讚》慈悲勸誡

Everything is pre-arranged by the Tathagata. It is just like Shakyamuni Buddha did in his time.

He teaches the Dharma in accord with the aptitudes of sentient beings, so that all of them are benefited. They are individually enlightened; but, enter the True Teaching together.

All 84,000 different teachings are expounded, for the purpose of extinguishing the karmic causes of ignorance.

A sharp sword is Amitabha's Name. It can eradicate all karmic offenses by even one recitation.

一切如來設方便,亦同今日釋迦尊,

隨機說法皆蒙益,各得悟解入真門;

門門不同八萬四,為滅無明果業因,

利劍即是彌陀號,一聲稱念罪皆除。

Namo Amituofo!

August 12, 2023

Aug 12, 2023

General Confusion and Misunderstandings by Amitabha-Reciters seeking Rebirth - By Master Jingzong

淨宗法師談念佛人的糊塗認識

#12 - “You can be more confident in being reborn by relying on a good advisor to assist with recitation near the end-of-life.” Is this true?

Comment:

Master Shandao labeled the primary practice of name-recitation as the Karma of Assurance. So, as long as you exclusively practice Amitabha-recitation in the present life, you are assured of rebirth, even without someone to assist your recitation near the end-of-life.

However, regarding assisted recitation, Master Yinguang said, “This method was invented by Master Shandao of the Tang dynasty. Those who do not recite Amitabha’s name in the present life can follow this method to attain rebirth.

Master Shandao was an incarnation of Amitabha. By practicing this method, one will gain great and deep benefits. I hope all those who learn about this method can believe in it, and advise others to believe. The merit and virtues of doing so are immeasurable. Those who are practitioners should not look down upon those people who do not practice. “If a non-practitioner, who is near the end-of-life, learns of this teaching and believes in it through the guidance of a good advisor; he may receive or practice assisted recitation with family members or others. In this way he or she can release all attachment and hatred and be reborn.”

There are two kinds of people who need assisted recitation, one being those who have not recited Amitabha’s name in the present life, and the other being those who have not recited exclusively; but, mixed the recitation of Amitabha’s name with other assorted practices.

淨宗法師 - 念佛人的糊塗認識

其十二 - “臨終要靠人助念往生才有把握。” 是嗎?

答:

善導大師以念佛作為往生“正定之業”,你只要平時專修念佛,即使臨終沒人助念,也肯定可以往生!

印光大師談到助念法時說:“此法乃唐善導和尚所發明,謂平日不念佛者,依此法助念,亦可往生。善導和尚,彌陀化身。是知此法,利益宏深。普願見聞,咸生正信;輾轉勸導,功德無量。勿道向來做工夫,即向不做工夫之人,臨終果能聞善知識開導,及他人助念,自己隨之念,左右眷屬善巧將護,不使其起情愛及瞋恨心,皆可往生。”

臨終助念法,對於兩種人有必要:一是平時不念佛的。二是平時雖然念佛,但是又不專門念佛雜行雜修的人,一定是要助念的。

Namo Amituofo!

August 11, 2023

Aug 11, 2023

The Patriarchal Lineage of the Pure Land Teaching - Master Shandao

善導大師

“There are many different ways to comment on and interpret the meaning of the Fundamental Vow; however, we should accept only Master Shandao’s explanation as our guide.” This is because Master Shandao’s explanations are simple and precise, clear and easy to understand. They are easy to interpret, easy to memorize, and easy to practice. The 18th Vow was originally clear and easy to understand. However, if it is presented in a manner that is too sophisticated,

people can not grasp its real meaning, and they develop biases. It should be clearly stated in the first place, then one can easily understand it. If it is overly interpreted and inflated with profound meanings, it becomes redundant and biased.

「本願註解,異義多端,唯應以善導之釋為其指南」,因為善導大師的解釋,簡明、扼要、明瞭,一看就容易理解,而且容易默記,容易行持。第十八願本來就很清楚很明白的,如果把它發揮得很玄奧,令人摸不著邊際,那其實就已經偏頗了。因為它是一目了然,當下可以明瞭、掌握的,卻作過多玄奧的解釋,恐怕就會變成畫蛇添足,走向偏離。

Namo Amituofo!

August 10, 2023

Aug 10, 2023

Master Huijing’s Short Dharma Teaching about Classification of Teachings – the Two Practices(Primary and Miscellaneous)

正雜二行判

Master Shandao classified all of the various teachings and practices given by Shakyamuni in his era into two kinds - the Primary and Miscellaneous Practices. It is the same approach he used to differentiate the Five Primary Practices which are intimate with Amitabha Buddha, and the Five Miscellaneous Practices, which are separate from Amitabha Buddha. Drawing upon the Fivefold Contrasts and Comparisons, and the Thirteen Kinds of Gains and Losses, he selected only the Five Primary Practices as the main practices for rebirth. All of the other practices are called Miscellaneous. They are NOT the main practices for rebirth. Master Shandao’s purpose in classifying the Practices as Primary and Miscellaneous is to discard the Miscellaneous Practices and only rely upon the Primary Practices for rebirth.

善導大師將一代佛法所廣說之諸種行門,大分為二,即是正行與雜行,亦即區分出與阿彌陀佛極為親近的五種正行與疏遠的五種雜行;依據「五番相對」與「十三得失」,而獨選取五種正行作為往生淨土之正行,此外皆名雜行,非往生正行,而捨雜歸正,是大師區分正雜二行的目的。

Namo Amituofo!

August 9, 2023

Aug 9, 2023

Common Knowledge in Pure Land Teaching

淨土小常識

Learn the teachings of the Pure Land School in One Minute

Let me ask you three questions:

1. Amitabha Buddha created his Land of Bliss. In it no one suffers any pain, birth, aging, illness, death, inversion, or fear. One only enjoys pleasures of various kinds.These are factual statements. Do you firmly believe them without any doubts?

2. Amitabha Buddha made a solemn vow to receive all sentient beings in his Land of Bliss, where they can more quickly and easily become Buddhas. In order to be received there we need only recite the name of Amitabha Buddha. These are factual statements. Do you firmly believe them without any doubts?

3. Based on the above facts, if I exclusively recite the name of Amitabha Buddha, Amitabha Buddha must keep his promise to appear and carry me to his Land of Bliss. It doesn’t matter when or where I recite. These are also factual statements. Do you firmly believe them without any doubts?

一分鐘教你認識「淨土宗」

問三個問題。

第一,阿彌陀佛建造了極樂世界,「無有眾苦,但受諸樂」,再無生老病死,再無顛倒恐懼。這個唯一的事實,你是否確信無疑?

第二,阿彌陀佛立下莊嚴誓願,接引一切眾生到極樂世界,快速成佛。條件是被接引者念阿彌陀佛的名號。這個唯一的事實,你是否確信無疑?

第三,因以上事實,若我念阿彌陀佛名號,無論何時何地、何種念法,阿彌陀佛必定履行誓願,接引我前往極樂世界。這個唯一的事實,你是否確信無疑?

Namo Amituofo!

August 8, 2023

Aug 8, 2023

A Verse sharing Compassionate Advice and Cautions quoted from ‘In Praise of Pratyutpanna’ by Master Shandao

善導大師《般舟讚》慈悲勸誡

The joy of the Samadhi of Pratyutpanna

The suffering in the Three Domains and the Six Realms is difficult to stop,

Sentient beings are endlessly drowning (in the sea of suffering),

They hear the sounds of birth and death everywhere.

Shakyamuni Tathagata’s real reward land is incomparably pure.

He was able to split his body and manifest in the Land of Saha.

He was able to deliver sentient beings by becoming a Buddha with the Eight Marks.

At various times, he shared the Dharma of the human, celestial realms, and the Two Vehicles.

At other times, he shared the practices necessary for Bodhisattvas to attain Nirvana.

He also spoke of the Sudden and Gradual Teachings, and explained the teachings of Emptiness and Existence.

He cleared obstructions within people through the Dharma. Thus, all those with advanced capabilities were benefited.

For those with lesser capabilities, he shared the Gradual Teaching of the Jade Sutra.

In that way they could realize the State of Non-Retrogression after ten thousand eons of cultivation.

He also taught the Contemplation Sutra, the Amitabha Sutra, etc.,

Which are among the Sudden Teachings within the Bodhisattva Canon.

Those who exclusively recite Amitabha’s Name for one to seven days, can instantly be reborn in the Land of Peace and Joy when their lives end.

It is exceedingly difficult for people to sustain their own cultivation for ten thousand eons,

Because they have hundreds and thousands of afflictions.

If they can persevere in their Dharma practices while in the Land of Saha,

They can expect to leave the Six Realms in as many eons as there are sands in the Ganges River

Greed and hatred are among the karmas that cause reincarnation.

How can these afflictions be the cause of the Perseverance of Non-Arising?

Why don’t those who experience the burning suffering of greed and hatred,

Simply go to the kingdom of Amitabha.

Amitabha aspired to attain perfect Enlightenment while in his causal ground.

He suddenly gave up his throne, became a monk called Dharmakara, and pursued the Bodhisattva practices as a student of Lokeshvararaja.

Because of his karmic circumstances, he made his famous 48 vows.

Each of them was made for the sake of delivering sentient beings.

般舟三昧樂,

三界六道苦難停, 曠劫以來常沒沒,

到處唯聞生死聲。 釋迦如來真報土,

清淨莊嚴無勝是; 為度娑婆分化入,

八相成佛度眾生。 或說人天二乘法,

或說菩薩涅槃因, 或漸或頓明空有,

人法二障遣雙除; 根性利者皆蒙益,

鈍根無智難開悟。 瓔珞經中說漸教,

萬劫修功證不退; 觀經彌陀經等說,

即是頓教菩薩藏。 一日七日專稱佛,

命斷須臾生安樂, 一入彌陀涅槃國,

即得不退證無生。 萬劫修功實難續,

一時煩惱百千間, 若待娑婆證法忍,

六道恒沙劫未期。 貪瞋即是輪迴業,

煩惱豈是無生因, 驗此貪瞋火燒苦,

不如走入彌陀國。 彌陀因地發心時,

頓捨王位求菩提, 饒王佛所落髮鬚,

出家修道名法藏, 四十八願因茲發,

一一誓願為眾生。

Namo Amituofo!

August 7, 2023

Aug 7, 2023

Master Huijing’s Short Dharma Teaching regarding Impermanence

慧淨法師之無常法語

Who has no skeleton? Who is not living in a dream? All phenomena in this world are impermanent and unreal. Only Amitabha is permanent and real.

何人非白骨,何時非夢中,世間皆虛假,彌陀獨真實。

Namo Amituofo!

August 6, 2023

Aug 6, 2023

General Confusion and Misunderstandings by Amitabha-Reciters seeking Rebirth - By Master Jingzong 

淨宗法師談念佛人的糊塗認識

#11 - The Buddha that comes to receive us as we approach death, may be the manifestation of a demon, an enemy or a creditor. Is this true?

Comment:

For those who exclusively practice Amitabha-recitation near the end-of-life, the Buddha who comes to receive them will be Amitabha Buddha. No fake or disguised Buddha manifested by demons will appear to obstruct us. Thus, Master Yuanzhao said, with reference to the scriptures, “The time of approaching death is not the time when demons come”.

For those who exclusively practice Amitabha-recitation, the three sacred beings in the West are their principal Buddha and Bodhisattvas. When you are close to death, they will appear in the form that you will recognize; so, there is no way that you won’t know them.

Demons, enemies and creditors may manifest as other Buddhas and Bodhisattvas to delude and confuse you; but, definitely not your principal ones. It is the rule, otherwise the Dharma guardians will not forgive them. The Dharma guardians do not intervene if the demons transform to become Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, except Amitabha Buddha and the principal ones.

淨宗法師 - 念佛人的糊塗認識

其十一 - “臨終來接引的佛可能是魔或冤親債主變現的。” 真的嗎?

答:

專修念佛,臨終的時候,來接的佛都一定是真佛,沒有假佛,不會有魔在這個時候變現來障礙我們。所以講:“臨終之時,非致魔之時。”元照律師就講,根據經典講臨終的時候不是致魔的時候。

專修念佛的人,西方三聖是我們的本尊,臨終時他們現的像你決定認識,決不會把他們認錯的。

魔或冤親債主可以變成其他的佛菩薩來誘惑你,但是決不會變本尊,這是規矩,不然護法神也不會饒過他們,本尊之外的佛菩薩變相,護法神不干涉。

Namo Amituofo!

August 5, 2023

Aug 5, 2023

The Patriarchal Lineage of the Pure Land Teaching - Master Shandao

善導大師

As Amitabha-reciters our purpose is to be reborn in the Land of Bliss. In order to do this we need a good advisor, whose teaching is pristine and whose practice is exclusive. Even though we aim for the Land of Bliss, and know the method of exclusive recitation of “Namo Amituofo”, we may lose our bearings in the course of learning if we have no good advisor to guide us, and help us with any worries that may hinder the great matter of our rebirth.

As far as a good advisor in our school is concerned, Master Shandao, the incarnation of Amitabha, is the most authoritative among all patriarchs. Master Shandao was an eminent monk in the Tang Dynasty. One time, when he recited Amitabha’s Name , a beam of light came out of his mouth. The Emperor and the Buddhists of his time called him “ the Great Monk of Light”. Master Shandao established the dogma of the pristine Pure Land School and is considered its de facto founder. When learning and practicing the Pure Land teaching, one must practice in accordance with the theology set forth by Master Shandao, the incarnation of Amitabha. In this way you will not waste your time.

我們是念佛的人,目的是要往生極樂世界,同樣也要有純正不偏、專修專弘的善知識來指導我們。否則,雖然目標是極樂世界,曉得方法是專念南無阿彌陀佛,但若沒有善知識指導,學習的過程恐將多繞彎路、迷失方向;或者因心中有所擔憂,而障礙了往生大事。

我們這一個法門的善知識,以祖師來講,最有權威的就是彌陀化身的善導大師。善導大師是唐朝的一位高僧,他念一聲佛號就有一道光明,當時的皇帝以及學佛者,都尊稱他為「光明和尚」。善導大師是純正淨土宗教理的開創者,亦即淨土宗的開宗祖師。要修學淨土法門,就必須根據彌陀化身的善導大師的淨土思想去修持,這樣才不會走冤枉路。

Namo Amituofo!

August 4, 2023

Aug 4, 2023

Master Huijing’s Short Dharma Teaching about Classification of Teachings – the Two Practices (Primary and Miscellaneous)

正雜二行判

The two practices, Primary and Miscellaneous, define the Pure Land teaching. From the point of view of the Sacred Path, MIscellaneous Practices are not called “miscellaneous”. However, with respect to the Pure Land Path, they are not practices in which we fully entrust Amitabha, in order to be reborn in the Land of Bliss. Thus, practitioners on the Sacred Path can only dedicate the merits they accumulate through miscellaneous practices for rebirth. The Pure Land teachings are like taking a direct flight to one’s destination. If it is not a direct flight, many transfers might be required in order to reach your final destination.

「正雜二行」之判是淨土門的判釋,雜行以聖道門而言不名為雜,然而來到淨土門,因為不是純粹彌陀極樂之行業,必須迴向方能往生,若不迴向便不能往生,故名為雜。猶如直達車,到站即是目的地;若非直達車,便須到處轉車,迴轉趣向於目的地,否則永難到達。

Namo Amituofo!

August 3, 2023

Aug 3, 2023

Common Knowledge in Pure Land Teaching

淨土小常識

To abide by the Buddha’s teachings, the Buddha’s instructions, and the Buddha’s wishes

If we exclusively recite Amitabha’s Name and aspire to be reborn in his Pure Land, we are practicing three kinds of acceptance:

To practice the teachings of Shakyamuni Buddha in the Contemplation Sutra, we should discard the two practices of meditative and non-meditative virtues, and exclusively recite Amitabha’s Name. This is abiding by the Buddha’s teachings.

It also means following the instructions of all Buddhas in the ten directions (in the Amitabha Sutra)that rebirth is assured by the mere recitation of Amitabha’s Name. This is following the instructions of the Buddhas.

Furthermore, it means following “wish to be reborn in my Land, even ten times” as stated in the 18th of Amitabha’s 48 vows, in the Infinite Life Sutra. This is also following the Buddha’s wishes.

隨順佛教、佛意、佛願

我們如果專稱彌陀佛名、願生彌陀淨土的話,就是有三個隨順:隨順釋迦牟尼佛在《觀經》所教導,就是最後捨定散二善而專稱彌陀佛名,這是隨順佛教;也是隨順十方諸佛在《阿彌陀經》所證誠的只要念佛必定往生,這就是隨順佛意;也是隨順《無量壽經》四十八願之中第十八願所講的「欲生我國,乃至十念」,這是隨順佛願。能夠這樣的話,才能成為真佛弟子。

Namo Amituofo!

August 2, 2023

Aug 2, 2023

A Verse sharing Compassionate Advice and Cautions quoted from “In Praise of the Rite of Rebirth” by Master Shandao

善導大師《往生禮讚》慈悲勸誡

I have been jealous for countless eons. My arrogance and caprice originate from my delusion.

The fires of hatred are poisonous, they burn my virtuous roots of wisdom and kindness.

After lifetimes of deep thought, today I am enlightened. With great vigor I set forth the mind of joyfulness.

歷劫以來懷嫉妒,我慢放逸由癡生,

恒以瞋恚毒害火,焚燒智慧慈善根。

今日思惟始惺悟,發大精進隨喜心。

Namo Amituofo!

August 1, 2023

Aug 1, 2023

Master Huijing’s Short Dharma Teaching regarding Impermanence

慧淨法師之無常法語

All phenomena must come to an end, just like fruit that falls when it ripens.

All matter that comes together will eventually disperse. In the same way, death must follow birth.

一切歸於盡,果熟亦當墮,合會必當散,有生必有死。

Namo Amituofo!

July 31, 2023

Jul 31, 2023

General Confusion and Misunderstandings by Amitabha-Reciters seeking Rebirth - By Master Jingzong

淨宗法師談念佛人的糊塗認識

#10 - An Amitabha-reciter who is in a coma near the end-of-life, and cannot arouse a thought of the Buddha’s Name is uncertain of being reborn. Is this correct?

Comment: (continued)

Amitabha Buddha made a vow to “appear and receive us near the end-of-life”. With boundless compassion, Amitabha knows we are confused and entangled in our karmic afflictions, and suffer deeply from the separation of the Four Great Elements. He has vowed to support us and says, “I will appear to receive you when you approach death, in order to make sure that you can maintain right mindfulness.”

There are no shortcomings in the exclusive practice of Amitabha-recitation, otherwise it could not be regarded as the “karma of assurance”.

淨宗法師 - 念佛人的糊塗認識

其十:“念佛人臨終昏迷,提不起佛號,往生不定。” 對嗎?

答: (續上)

阿彌陀佛之所以發這個“臨終現前接引願”,就是憐憫我們臨終四大分離、業緣相纏而不能做主。他知道我們有這樣的倒亂的苦惱,才要加持我們說:“我臨終現前接引,就是為了保證你命終之時能夠正念、心不顛倒的。”

專修念佛不會有閃失的,不然就不能稱為“正定之業”。

Namo Amituofo!

July 30, 2023

Jul 30, 2023

General Confusion and Misunderstandings by Amitabha-Reciters seeking Rebirth - By Master Jingzong

淨宗法師談念佛人的糊塗認識

#10 - An Amitabha-reciter who is in a coma near the end-of-life, and is unable to arouse a thought of the Buddha’s Name is uncertain of being reborn. Is this correct?

Comment:

Our spirit/consciousness is not controlled by our sensory organs. The sixth consciousness (of the mind) controls the function of the brain. When the brain ceases functioning, the spirit/consciousness is still alive. Even if we are blind, our spirits are not. Spirit is always clear and sharp.

In Guiyang, China, there was an Amitabha-reciter who was blind. He suddenly “died” because of cerebral congestion. After his “death”, he was sent to a hospital. However, after a day he regained consciousness and immediately recited Namo Amituofo! He said he saw Amitabha Buddha in the Pure Land of Bliss. Later, he passed away. This explains that, though a person appears to be in a coma or delirious, his consciousness /spirit still functions, and it can clearly see the arrival of Amitabha Buddha.

So, as long as you recite Amitabha’s name exclusively, you don’t need to worry whether Amitabha Buddha will come to receive you, or that you will not recognize him. No need to worry at all!

(to be continued tomorrow)

淨宗法師 - 念佛人的糊塗認識

其十:“念佛人臨終昏迷,提不起佛號,往生不定。” 對嗎?

答:

神識是不受我們器官的影響的。第六意識是腦器官的作用,腦器官壞掉了,沒有意識作用,但神識不會壞;眼睛壞了,神識也沒有壞,神識還是很清楚明朗。

貴陽有位蓮友是一個瞎子,得腦溢血突然死過去了,他是平常專修念佛的人。死過去到醫院搶救,經過一天一夜,醒過來第一句就念“南無阿彌陀佛”,然後說在這段時間,他看見極樂淨土阿彌陀佛了。後來往生的很殊勝。這就說明:臨終人雖然在外相看起來昏迷、迷惑,其實他的神識,佛來接引看得很清楚,不昏昧的。

所以,你只要平時專修念佛,不必擔心臨終阿彌陀佛不來接,或者“佛來接,我不知道、看不見”,你根本不用擔心。

(再續)

Namo Amituofo!

July 29, 2023

Jul 29, 2023

Patriarchal Lineage of the Pure Land Teaching - Master Shandao

善導大師

Master Shandao explained the main objective of the passage of the Three Tiers in the Great Sutra as follows: “The Buddha says the root and aptitude of all sentient beings are different, divided in high, medium and low. In accordance with their root and aptitude, the Buddha urges all of them to exclusively urge the Name of Infinite Life Buddha. Thus, when that person approaches death, the Buddha and a multitude of sacred beings will automatically welcome and receive, so that all will attain rebirth.”

善導大師闡釋《大經》三輩的旨趣就說：「佛說一切眾生，根性不同，有上中下；隨其根性，佛皆勸專念無量壽佛名；其人命欲終時，佛與聖眾，自來迎接，盡得往生。」

Namo Amituofo!