November 30, 2023

Nov 30, 2023

Voice of Master Jingzong - Q and A about the Purpose of Life

淨宗之聲 - 人生目的問答

Q10: For what reason do people live? Just to aspire to be reborn in the Land of Bliss? What is the reason for living for an ordinary person?

Answer: That is a very practical and powerful question, but also very serious and deep. Why are we alive? How many people know the answer? When searching for an answer, many people become depressed and may even commit suicide. Not many people even ask this question, because there is no simple answer. It can be an embarrassing and tough question to answer.

If this question is asked of Amitabha-reciters, they will say the purpose of life is “to aspire to be reborn in the Land of Bliss”. Just for that and no other purpose? What about working hard for our children? What is the meaning of that? ”

I think if you are looking for a single purpose for our lives, you should search more deeply. Everyone has different answers for the purpose of life; as does every religion and philosopher .

I think the most common answer for the purpose of life is that everyone should live to receive and share one’s blessings and happiness. No matter what religion or who you are, no one says he is living to experience misfortune and unhappiness. Do you agree?

To pursue blessings and happiness is not a problem, and it is a common life purpose for all. However, we also have to consider, how do we define blessings and happiness? How do we attain blessings and happiness?

(to be continued tomorrow)

問 (10)。人活著到底是為了什麼?難道就是為了求生極樂世界嗎?那現世人

的生活還有什麼意義可言?

淨宗之聲:

我覺得這個問題非常實在,非常有力度,很深沉。人活著到底是為了什麼?

現在那麼多人得抑鬱症、跳樓,多少人都不知道人活著為什麼,也很少有人問這個問題,因為問了也沒答案,問了大家都很難堪。

但是你問出來了,這個問題是要問。接著還反問,“很多念佛人說為了往生西方極樂世界,難道只是為了求生極樂世界嗎?還有沒有點別的目的呢?

如果只是求生西方極樂世界,那忙工作、忙兒忙女地活著還有啥意思呢?”我覺得人要考慮人生的目的,說明你對人生是有思考的,而且考慮得很深沉。可能每個人的答案不一樣,世間每個宗教的答案都不一樣,哲學家的答案也不一樣。

但我想有個最大的公約數,就是每個人活著都是為了幸福和快樂。

不管什麼宗教、什麼人物,沒有哪個說“我活著就是為了追求不幸”,對吧?都是為了追求幸福和快樂,這點是沒問題的,這是所有人共同的答案。

接下來我們就要考慮:什麼是幸福和快樂呢?怎樣才能達到幸福和快樂呢?

Namo Amituofo!

November 29, 2023

Nov 29, 2023

The Patriarchal Lineage of the Pure Land Teaching - Master Shandao

善導大師

Master Shandao says, “The functional capacity of the Samadhi of Amitabha-Recitation is transcendental and absolute. None of the other miscellaneous practices can compare with it.” Miscellaneous here refers to both the meditative and non-meditative categories. It includes as many as ten thousand practices. It doesn’t mean confused or have a negative connotation.

In Buddhism, we can delineate all of the practices into the meditative and non-meditative categories. That is to say, all merit and virtues can be included within the meditative and non-meditative practices.

The exclusive recitation of Amitabha’s Name is single-minded. Shakyamuni Buddha’s other teachings include both meditative and non-meditative practices, of which there are many different types and levels.

善導大師說:「念佛三昧,功能超絕,實非雜善,得為比類。」這裏講的「雜善」,就是指定善及散善。

佛教的修行,歸納起來離不開定善及散善,亦即:定善和散善涵蓋了佛教所有修行(也就是六度萬行)的功德。所以,「雜」是指「諸行」「萬行」,不是雜亂或鄙視的意思。

因為念佛只是「專一、專念」彌陀佛名,其他的法門,不管定也好、散也好,就不只是專一地念一佛之名,而是千差萬別,且各有高低。

Namo Amituofo!

November 28, 2023

Nov 28, 2023

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

正雜二行判

The Five Primary Pure Land practices are included within each recitation of Amitabha’s Name. The four other practices will merge into and are included in recitation of Amitabha’s Name. The purpose of the four other practices is to bring us back to the exclusive recitation of Amitabha’s Name, which is the karma of assurance.

五種正行中,只要修稱名念佛,其他四種就統統融入,統統包含了。其他四種正行的目的,就是要歸趨到正定業的專稱佛名。

Namo Amituofo!

November 27, 2023

Nov 27, 2023

Common Knowledge in Pure Land Teaching

淨土小常識

107 Inhibiting and Embracing for Those of the Lowest Level in the Low Tier

The Contemplation Sutra talks about rebirth in nine levels, and says people of the lowest level in the low tier will blossom and see the Buddha after 12 eons. Hence, people wonder: If people of the lowest level in the low tier attain rebirth through Amitabha-recitation, why not those in the highest level in the high tier? It takes 12 eons for them to blossom. That seems way too long.

There are two answers to this question. One is inhibiting and the other is embracing. That is to say, those of the lowest level in the low tier are sentient beings who commit the Five Gravest Offenses and the Ten Unwholesome Deeds, and they cannot be delivered by any of the Buddhist practices of the “Difficult Path.” Hence, they are doomed to fall into Avici Hell after death.

However, by merely reciting Amitabha’s name several times, they can escape Avici Hell and reincarnation within the Six Realms, and attain rebirth in Amitabha’s Pure Land. This is called “embracing.”

“Inhibiting” is taught by Shakyamuni Buddha as a way of “subduing”. It is an expedient means for preventing sentient beings from committing the Five Gravest Transgressions and the Ten Evil Deeds. If we commit the Five Gravest Transgressions and the Ten Evil Deeds during our lives in the world, we will be imprisoned within a lotus flower for 12 eons even if we can be reborn. This is a solemn warning called “inhibiting”.

“Inhibiting on one side and embracing on the other” reflects Amitabha Buddha’s wisdom and compassion. Amitabha never forsakes any human beings, and all can eventually be rescued.

107 下品下生的抑與攝

《觀無量壽經》說九品往生,其中的「下品下生」,要歷經十二大劫才花開見佛。於是就有人懷疑:下品下生是念佛的,怎麼他們不在上品上生,而在下品下生?而且還費時十二大劫?

其實,這有「抑」與「攝」的含義。

也就是說,下品下生──五逆十惡的眾生,是任何法門都不能救度、當下就要墮入阿鼻地獄的;只是念著幾句佛號,不僅脫離阿鼻地獄、六道輪迴,而且得以往生,這就是「攝」,也就是「救度」。

「抑」,是從降伏的立場來講,是釋尊為了讓我們眾生不造五逆謗法之罪而方便解說的。人生在世,不要造五逆十惡,否則即便往生,會有十二大劫在蓮花當中。這是鄭重的告誡,就是「折」。

一抑一攝,充分體現阿彌陀佛的智慧與慈悲:於諸眾生,永不棄捨,終能救拔。

Namo Amituofo!

November 26, 2023

Nov 26, 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 adornments of the Pure Land are infinite.

Countless beings, from the worlds in the ten directions, will be reborn there.

All beings from past eons, in the hundreds and thousands, as many as the sands in the Ganges River.

It doesn’t matter how many. All can be reborn there and accommodated.

Actually, the number of sentient beings in the ten directions does not increase.

Neither does Amitabha’s Buddha-land diminish.

淨土莊嚴無有盡,十方生者亦無窮,

千劫萬劫恒沙劫,一切去者不相妨,

十方眾生未曾減,彌陀佛國亦無增。

Namo Amituofo!

November 25, 2023

Nov 25, 2023

Master Huijing’s Short Dharma Teaching about Impermanence

慧淨法師之無常法語

Where are the generals and ministers of the past?

All are in a remote graveyard covered with wild grass.

古今將相在何方?荒塚一堆草沒了。

Namo Amituofo!

November 24, 2023

Nov 24, 2023

Voice of Master Jingzong - Q and A about the Purpose of Life

淨宗之聲 - 人生目的問答

Answer to Q9:

A loving heart is the foremost feature of our Buddha-natures. As a youngster, you were introduced to the Buddhist faith. Then you chose to work as a volunteer to serve society with a loving heart. That is a very positive and meaningful job.

A person who shares with others with a loving heart is not a waste. It is a

wonderful choice to add to the value of life. If a person doesn’t share his loving heart, it is truly a waste; even if he earns a lot of money, or if he is promoted to a higher position.

So, Buddha-nature and a loving heart are always foremost. A person’s value is more dependent on whether he has a loving heart or not, not on his knowledge and his earning power. Many people who have strong earning power may commit suicide. Isn’t that a waste? On one hand their technological inventions benefit human beings; but, may also cause destruction, and arouse people’s greed and hatred.

For example, the internet is a remarkable invention; but, it also created the

problem of cyber safety. So, there are always advantages and disadvantages with worldly success and contributions.

However, if a person serves people with a loving heart and is pure in his mind and actions, he can lead society towards harmony, peace, joy, cooperation, compassion and progress. These are much more meaningful contributions. This is mainly because of the difference in the values and meaning in their lives.

2

【佛性、愛心為第一】

那麼,作為一個年輕人,能去做義工,有佛法的信仰,為社會群體做愛心的服務,這本身具有非常正面的積極意義。一個人能充滿愛心,擴展愛心,這不是浪費,這是完成人生價值的最好行為。

假如一個人不能展現這種愛心,即使做生意賺了很多錢,做官有很高的官位

,那也是浪費了。所以,是以佛性為第一,以愛心為第一。因為人的價值在於他有沒有愛心,而不是看他讀了多少書、掙了多少錢。

掙錢多的人,跳樓多的是,那樣究竟是不是又浪費了呢?包括科技發明,一方面固然利益人類,另一方面也給人類帶來無窮的禍患,引起人們的貪慾,甚至弊端重重。

比如說,發明互聯網,這是一件了不起的事,但是同時又有了網絡安全問題。所以,世間所謂的成功、貢獻,都有利弊兩方面。

但是,如果是以一種愛心來服務大眾,他這種發心和作為是清淨的,是純善的,是不帶染污、沒有副作用的;也可以帶動風氣之先,引領這個社會向著和諧、安樂、互助、慈愛的方向進步。所以,我認為它的進步意義是非常的大。

這主要是對人生價值、人生意義的認識不一樣,而引發判斷不一樣和行為不一樣。

Namo Amituofo!

November 23, 2023

Nov 23, 2023

Voice of Master Jingzong - Q and A about the Purpose of Life

淨宗之聲 - 人生目的問答

Q9: Is it a waste for someone to become devoted to Buddhism and become a Buddhist while in their twenties? Is it worth it for them to give up their jobs to become a full time volunteer in a Buddhist organization? Couldn’t their academic qualifications and talents be better used to contribute to society? They are a disappointment to their parents and the teachers who nourished them. What do you think dear Dharma master?

Answer to Q9:

When Shakyamuni Buddha gave up his status as a prince, and said goodbye to his father who was a King, many people thought it was a “waste”, a “pity” and a “disappointment” to his parents and teachers. A prophet had predicted that he would become a Wheel Turning Sagely King if he didn’t leave home. He could bring peace and joy to all of the citizens in his country.

Leaving home to be a monk is a “waste”?! The prince became a fully enlightened Buddha. How can a Wheel Turning Sagely King be compared with a Buddha? Isn’t it more of a waste if our Buddha-nature is not awakened and developed?

From the Buddhist point of view, all sentient beings have Buddha-nature, which is the capacity to become a Buddha. However, if our Buddha-nature is not nurtured and we continually commit karmic offenses, we will endlessly reincarnate within the Six Realms. Isn’t that the greatest waste?!

(to be continued tomorrow)

問 (9)二十來歲的年輕人入佛門,是不是太可惜?他們對佛教非常信仰,甚至要放棄工作,全職加入佛教團隊做義工。以他們的學歷、能力,原本可以為社會做出很大貢獻,當義工是不是太可惜、太浪費了?而且也辜負了父母、師長的養育和教育之恩。請問法師怎麼看待這種現象?

淨宗之聲:

當初釋迦牟尼佛告別王子的身份去出家的時候,相信很多人也認為“這個太浪費、太可惜了!辜負了父母的養育之恩”,甚至相師說“若不出家,必定能成為轉輪聖王,能造福整個國家人民,能讓社會政治清明,人民幸福安樂”。出家去修行,做個和尚,這不太浪費了嗎?但是佛陀出家,成為圓滿覺悟的佛陀,一個世間的轉輪聖王、一個聖明的君主,那和佛陀怎麼能相比呢?

1

【佛性沒有覺悟、開發是最大的浪費】

這是一個價值觀的判斷問題。如果以佛法來說,“一切眾生皆有佛性,有佛性者皆得成佛”,我們眾生有佛性,可是沒有順著佛性去成佛,反而去造罪造業,輪迴六道,這才是最大的浪費。所以,佛性沒有覺悟、開發,這是最大的浪費。因為本來可以成佛的,現在成為一個六道輪迴的眾生,不管在世間有多大的成就,這都是最大的浪費。

Namo Amituofo!

November 22, 2023

Nov 22, 2023

The Patriarchal Lineage of the Pure Land Teaching - Master Shandao

善導大師

The Samadhi of Buddha-Recitation is taught in relation to the Samadhi of Buddha-Contemplation. In order to contemplate the Buddha, one must be proficient in meditative practices. The Buddha taught us to practice in the following order: Sun contemplation, Water contemplation, Miscellaneous

Contemplations and ultimately reaching the Samadhi of Buddha-Contemplation.

However, Amitabha-recitation does not require any proficiency in meditative practices; so, it does not belong in the same category as the meditative “Samadhis.” Master Shandao used the word “Samadhi” as a form of praise. This means that all of those who recite (including ordinary beings), even though they are not proficient in meditative practices and haven’t experienced purity of mind, the functional capacity of Samadhi resides within the name. Thus, Master Shandao says, “ this shows that the Samadhi of Buddha-Recitation is transcendent and has an absolute functional capacity.”

「念佛三昧」是跟「觀佛三昧」相比較的。要觀佛,必需要有三昧的定功才能成就,無論是開始的「日想觀」「水想觀」,還是最後的「雜想觀」,都要有定的功夫,因此觀佛叫「觀佛三昧」。

但是念佛不是定功,應該不屬於三昧,而善導大師在這裏卻以「三昧」來讚歎,也就是說,能念者——我們念佛的凡夫雖然心不能入定,沒有定的功夫,不能達到清淨心,但所念佛號的本身是有三昧的功能在裏面的,所以善導大師才說:「正顯念佛三昧,功能超絕」。

Namo Amituofo!

November 21, 2023

Nov 21, 2023

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

正雜二行判

If we cultivate the Primary Practices, especially the karma of assurance, we will have the most intimate and inseparable relationship with Amitabha Buddha. If we exclusively recite Amitabha Buddha’s Name we can be reborn, even if we don't dedicate all of our time to it. This is because the Primary Practices are the main cause of rebirth in the pristine Pure Land teaching.

如果修正行,尤其是正定業的話,那麼跟阿彌陀佛就非常的親密,一體不離的親密,同時也跟阿彌陀佛常在一起的親近,可以說憶念阿彌陀佛是無有間斷,所以不迴向也能往生,因為本身就是往生的正因,可說是純純粹粹的淨土之行。

Namo Amituofo!

November 20, 2023

Nov 20, 2023

Common Knowledge in Pure Land Teaching

淨土小常識

106 Amitabha-Recitation is the Same as Reliance on the Buddha’s Vow

The moment we recite Amitabha’s Name, we immediately board the ship of

Amitbha’s vow. It is not that we board after we recite Amitabha’s Name. It is not that we board only if we are skilful in reciting Amitabha’s Name. It is also not that we only board near the end-of-life, even though we continually

recite Amitabha’s Name in the present.

It means that Amitaba-recitation itself establishes full reliance on the Buddha’s Vow. As soon as we recite Amitabha’s name, we are already on board the ship of Amitabha Buddha’s vow. If it is with our last breath, we will be reborn instantly.

Moreover, as soon as we recite Amitabha’s name, our minds are replete with the merits and virtues of rebirth. There is no need to have: any particular skills, any deep meditative state, any uninterrupted pure mind, subduing or severing our delusions, reaching the single-mindedness of phenomena and law, etc.

It is not that the present recitation of Amitabha’s name is simply a habit, that will only be affirmed near the end-of-life. Rebirth is assured in the present life; so, the great matter of rebirth is accomplished right in this moment.

106念佛即是乘佛願

念佛當下即是乘佛願船,非念而後乘願船,亦非念至功夫成片方乘願船,亦非平生念佛,至臨終方乘。

意思就是說,念佛的本身即是乘佛願,當下念佛,當下就已乘上阿彌陀佛的願船,如果當下斷氣,當下就往生。

而且,當下念佛,以當下的心境,就已經擁有往生的功德,並不需要功夫,念到所謂的「功夫成片」「夢寐一如」「淨念相繼」,或降伏見惑、斷除思惑、達到事一心、理一心......,不是這樣的。

也不是現在的念佛只在培養階段,等到臨終才確定下來,決定能不能往生,而是「平生業成」,往生大事,當下成就。

Namo Amituofo!

November 19, 2023

Nov 19, 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

Those sentient beings who deceive and slander the Three Jewels

Will enter hell, with no date of release, after their deaths.

Using harsh language, speaking with two tongues, greed, hatred and arrogance

Will result in suffering in all 80,000 hells.

Those who gossip about and comment on the wrongdoings of the Three Jewels,

Will have their tongues wrenched out in hell.

I strongly urge sentient beings to protect the Three Dharmas.

Always recite Namo Amitabha while walking, standing, sitting, and lying down.

Never forget about the suffering in the various hells.

That will augment our aspiration to rebirth.

Let’s swear not to commit any of the karmic offenses of the Three Wretched Realms,

And do not become too attached to the rewards in the human and celestial realms.

Immediately remember the longlasting suffering in hell

And never question the Land of Peace and Joy simply because we didn’t instantly renounce this world.

The Land of Peace and Joy is an unconditioned Buddha-land.

It is the most marvelous realm for our final settlement.

欺誑三寶眾生類,死入泥犁無出期;

惡口兩舌貪瞋慢,八萬地獄皆周遍;

論說他人三寶過,死入拔舌泥犁中。

普勸眾生護三業,行住坐臥念彌陀,

一切時中憶地獄,發起增上往生心,

誓願不作三塗業,人天樂報亦無心。

忽憶地獄長時苦,不捨須臾忘安樂,

安樂佛國無為地,畢竟安身實是精。

Namo Amituofo!

November 18, 2023

Nov 18, 2023

Master Huijing’s Short Dharma Teachings about Impermanence

慧淨法師之無常法語

It is appropriate for our next life to be better than this one.

Don’t arrange your present life in such a way to make it better than the next life.

只宜來世勝今世,莫遣今生勝來生。

Namo Amituofo!

November 17, 2023

Nov 17, 2023

Voice of Master Jingzong - Q and A about the Purpose of Life

淨宗之聲 - 人生目的問答

Q8: Despite accumulating a great deal of knowledge, we still don't have a better life. Why?

Answer to Q8: (continued)

If you learn Buddhist teachings, your life will be deepened, and you will be more confident in your good prospects, hope and light. You will have a life full of delight and safety.

Let me simply make two points:

1. If you establish the Buddhist concept of cause and effect as your guide in life, you will have less trouble, and avoid conflicts and calamities. If not, you will commit offenses and suffer the consequences of what you do.

If you understand cause and effect, and implement it in your thought process, you will think - this is a wholesome cause incurring a wholesome effect, so do it; or, this is an unwholesome cause incurring a painful effect, so don’t do it.

So, before you take any action, you will have already clearly differentiated it. Generally, people just take a chance, and commit offenses without weighing the consequences. This is very dangerous.

2. Those of us who recite Amitabha’s name are embraced by his compassionate light. In response, we feel warmth, comfort, trust, confidence, safety, ease of mind, and many other immeasurable benefits.

(續)

所以,如果能學佛法,人生一定非常開闊,也一定會很有信心,很有前途,很有光明,充滿著喜樂和平安地度過這一生。

最簡單地說兩點:

◎ 比如說,如果建立了對佛法因果觀念的認知,以此來指導自己的人生,那會免掉多少麻煩?那會避開多少矛盾、凶險?因為不知因果、不信因果,妄造一些因果,造了罪業,最後都是痛苦,所謂自釀的苦酒自己喝。

如果明了因果的話,起心動念都非常慎重,“此事是善因,會得到福樂的果報,去做;此事是惡因,絶對會有痛苦的果報,那就迴避”。

所以,在沒有行為之前,就已經辨得很清楚。但一般人都帶著僥倖心理,糊里糊塗、糊塗膽大地胡作非為,這多凶險啊。

◎ 再比如,如果我們多唸佛,自然在佛光的攝護、佛光的慈悲照耀之中,會感受到佛法的溫暖、安慰,這一生有依靠,有信心,有安心,有安全。這個好處是無窮無盡的。好,南無阿彌陀佛,供你參考。

Namo Amituofo!

November 16, 2023

Nov 16, 2023

Voice of Master Jingzong - Q and A about the Purpose of Life

淨宗之聲 - 人生目的問答

Q8: Often, even with the accumulation of a great deal of knowledge, we still don't have a better life. Why?

Answer to Q8:

Yes, this is a question that troubles many contemporary Chinese and other people in the world. They think it is unreasonable. One should have a life filled with blessings if he is very knowledgeable! Actually, it more often depends upon what knowledge you have and what was its source.

If its source was a person who doesn't know how to live well, has no enlightenment, and suffers a great deal in his own life, you should not expect to have a life filled with blessings, if you choose to follow his teachings about how to live one’s life . Isn’t that so?

Take a look. There are many who share their knowledge, both online and in books; but, how many of them have gained enlightenment in their lives? Have they eliminated all of their afflictions? Is their compassion perfect and complete?

Some famous authors, poets, artists, philosophers, etc. have created a great body of work ; but, in the end they may commit suicide or accumulate many karmic offenses. They are still just ordinary beings, trapped by their habitual behaviors and afflictions. If you trust in their teachings, you will probably not have blessings in your life.

So, as you see, just because a person is knowledgeable it doesn’t mean he has more blessings. Blessings are more of a feeling in our hearts. If you learn Buddhist teachings, you know the Buddha was a fully enlightened being, with perfect and complete compassion and wisdom. It is his great compassion and wisdom that shows us the direction and path in life.

(to be continued tomorrow)

問(8):為什麼我們讀了很多書,學到了很多知識,卻依舊過不好這一生呢?

淨宗之聲:

是的。這個問題或許代表了當代中國人的主要困惑,甚至也是世界人民的困惑。沒有理由認為讀了很多書、學了很多知識就可以一生幸福。這要看你讀的是什麼書,而且寫書的是什麼人。

如果寫書的人自己都是一個不會生活的人,都是沒有覺悟人生的人,都是一個痛苦、煩惱的人,那麼你讀他的書,你想一想,你會過幸福圓滿的人生嗎?

我們來看一看,每年書店有那麼多的書,這些寫書的人覺悟了嗎?斷煩惱了嗎?慈悲圓滿了嗎?有些大名鼎鼎的作家、詩人、藝術家、哲學家,書一寫一大摞,但是最後呢?有的人走向自殺,有的人整天造罪造業,本身還是煩惱習氣徹底的凡夫,你讀他的書,當然不可能獲得人生的幸福。

所以,不是說知識學得多人生就幸福。因為人生的幸福是用心來感受,不是以我們的知識。如果學習佛法,佛陀是慈悲、智慧都圓滿的覺悟者,是那樣的大徹大悟、究竟圓滿了達人生;是那樣的大慈大悲,給我們指明了人生的方向和人生的道路。

Namo Amituofo!

November 15, 2023

Nov 15, 2023

The Patriarchal Lineage of the Pure Land Teaching - Master Shandao

善導大師

Master Shandao clearly indicated that the aim of Pure Land practitioners is rebirth in Amitabha’s Land of Bliss. The methods for achieving this are the five Primary Practices. Only Master Shandao taught in such a clear manner! In this way, the teachings of the Pure Land School were totally, perfectly, and completely revealed.

This is why we consider Master Shandao the greatest master of Pure Land teaching and the de facto founder of the Pure Land School.

善導大師明確指出往生的目標是極樂世界,方法就在五種正行──歷來只有善導大師這樣明確的標示。可說,淨土宗的教理至此就完全地圓滿顯露了,因此善導大師可以說是我們淨土法門的大導師,我們因此獨以善導大師為我們這一宗的宗祖。

Namo Amituofo!

November 14, 2023

Nov 14, 2023

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

正雜二行判

Only Amitabha-recitation is both a genuine acclamation and a way of making offerings. Setting exclusive recitation of the name aside lacks understanding, is not filial or obedient, and is disrespectful of Amitabha Buddha. So, genuine acclamation and making offerings are contained in the exclusive recitation of Amitabha’s name.

唯有「稱名念佛」才是真正的讚歎供養。不然,離開了專稱名號,對阿彌陀佛就是一種不了解、不孝順、不敬重。所以真正的讚歎供養,唯有專稱彌陀佛名。

Namo Amituofo!

November 13, 2023

Nov 13, 2023

Common Knowledge in Pure Land Teaching

淨土小常識

105 Amitabha-Recitation with Repentance and Joy

(continued)

At the same time, during this repentance, he feels joy, comfort and delight, because he knows, even though he now bears heavy karmic burdens, he will not fall into hell because he has accepted Amitabha Buddha’s deliverance.

Without Amitabha’s deliverance, he will not have repentance with joy and comfort even if he repents. So, that is the Pure Land teaching. On one hand, we have repentance, and on the other hand, we have joy. The more we repent, the more joy we experience. Repentance and joy naturally come together.

105 懺喜念佛

同時,在這懺悔當中,又有喜樂、安慰、歡喜的心情,因為他知道雖然自己現在是這樣的業障深重,卻不會墮落下去,因為有阿彌陀佛的救度。

若沒有阿彌陀佛的救度,則雖懺悔,無法同時擁有喜樂的懺悔、安慰的懺悔。所以,淨土法門就是這樣,心中一方面有懺悔,一方面又有歡喜,懺悔有多少,歡喜就有多少,邊懺悔邊歡喜,懺悔和歡喜都在一起,自然會有這樣的心境。

Namo Amituofo!

November 12, 2023

Nov 12, 2023

Common Knowledge in Pure Land Teaching

淨土小常識

105 Amitabha-Recitation with Repentance and Joy

“Sincerely and joyfully entrust” as said in the 18th Vow, refers to deliverance by Amitabha Buddha. Because I will leave the cycle of birth-and-death, and ultimately become a Buddha, I can’t help but be joyful! This is why it is called “joyfully entrusting”.

Master Shandao taught that a person who “sincerely and joyfully entrusts” has a kind of state of mind that includes repentance with every single name-recitation. This is because, on the one hand, he knows he is a mortal ordinary being who commits offenses life after life, and owes many people a great deal, that he has no way to escape from reincarnation through his own power. Only Amitabha Buddha forgives us, unconditionally loves us, does not argue with us, and unconditionally bestows the merit and virtues of the Land of Bliss upon us.

If we understand this principle, our state of mind will change. Once changed, we have a mind of repentance that is gentle and soft. We feel ashamed, because we know what we should do; but, we fail to do so. So, each time we recite the Buddha’s name, it includes a thought of repentance. Therefore, it is called “always repenting with every single name-recitation”.

(to be continued tomorrow)

105 懺喜念佛

第十八願講「至心信樂」,這是說有阿彌陀佛的救度,我的生死可脫,成佛可期,所以我很歡喜,這就叫做信樂。

有至心信樂的人,他會有一種心境,就是善導大師說的「念念稱名常懺悔」。因為他一方面知道自己是生死凡夫,造業造罪,生生世世以來,欠別人很多,沒有辦法以自己的力量脫離生死輪迴,只有阿彌陀佛包容我們,沒有嫌棄我們,不和我們計較,甚至於把極樂世界成佛的功德,沒有條件、平白地全都送給我們。

若了解這個道理,心境就會轉;心境如果轉了,就會有一種懺悔的心,就會更加柔軟,覺得自己很卑賤──明知應該要如何做,但偏偏卻做不到。所以,在念佛稱名當中,就都有懺悔的念頭在裡面,這就是「念念稱名常懺悔」。

Namo Amituofo!

November 11, 2023

Nov 11, 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

Non-filial parents who criticized the Three Jewels

Received their retribution in the fires of hell when their lives ended.

Those who slander and insult their relatives, break the pure precepts and will fall into a hell realm.

If they kill sentient beings and eat their flesh

They will directly enter the fires of hell.

Those who see and hear about these actions indirectly participate in that killing.

They will receive similar punishment with no opportunity to make excuses.

Those who steal the property of the Three Jewels and other sentient beings,

Will receive the retribution of falling into hell with no date of release.

Those who steal the property of parents and relatives,

Will also be condemned to hell.

不孝父母罵三寶,終時獄火自相迎;

毀辱六親破淨戒,亦墮如是泥犁中。

殺害眾生食他肉,直入泥犁火聚中;

見聞方便處分殺,如前受苦未何央。

劫盜三寶眾生物,一墮泥犁無出期;

偷劫父母六親物,亦入如是泥犁中。

Namo Amituofo!

November 10, 2023

Nov 10, 2023

Master Huijing’s Short Dharma Teaching about Impermanence

慧淨法師之無常法語

Apart from the greatest and most meaningful matter of birth-and-death,

All other matters can be discussed, negotiated and compromised.

除去死生真大事,其餘皆是可商量。

Namo Amituofo!

November 9, 2023

Nov 9, 2023

Voice of Master Jingzong - Q and A about the Purpose of Life

淨宗之聲 - 人生目的問答

(continuation of Q7 - 6/6)

So, when we feel lonely, we should be happy because it is the time for us to realize it is the calling of our Buddha-nature. When we try to forget our loneliness by burying it in a constantly busy life, that is the time that we are most deeply deluded and numb.

“The ending sound of drums suddenly vanishes , and no one knows where the homeland is.” When people concentrate on watching and acting in the drama, they become part of the play. However, it will eventually end. When the sound of drums at the end of the play ceases, the actors will change clothes. Where are the actors who played the kings and officers? Do you know where you are?

It is the same in our lives. We play the role of a wife, a husband, a son, a successful person, an elite, or of a hawker. If you enjoy the acting, you will feel happily alive.

However, when death comes, you hear the director saying, “Hello, please come down from the stage? That is King Yama inviting you to come and see him”. When the final drumbeat in your life ends, where will you be? Do you know where your homeland is?

I hope all sentient beings recite Namo Amituofo, and return to the capital of Buddha Nature, the source and origin of life.

所以,當我們內心感受到孤獨的時候,倒是值得歡喜的時候,這體現了佛性的招喚;當我們在熱閙場中忘記孤獨的時候,反而是迷茫和麻醉最深的時候。

所謂“頃刻一聲鑼鼓歇,不知何處是家鄉”,正在戲台下看戲,整個人的精神埋沒在劇情當中,演員也在那裡演,都覺得挺好。“梆!”這個戲總要終場,收場的鑼鼓一敲響,你就要卸妝了。你還在那裡演皇上,演大臣,演什麼,這鑼鼓一敲,你在哪兒呢?

我們在世間扮演妻子,扮演丈夫,扮演兒子,扮演成功者,扮演精英,即使扮演一個販夫走卒,你也有一個身份在扮演,還覺得挺熱閙。

可是無常來了,“下台了,某某人,你不要在這演了,現在閻羅王要請你去了”,這就是“頃刻一聲鑼鼓歇”。請問你要回到哪裡去呢?“不知何處是家鄉”。

願一切眾生稱念南無阿彌陀佛,回歸佛性之都,回歸生命的本源。

Namo Amituofo!

November 8, 2023

Nov 8, 2023

Voice of Master Jingzong - Q and A about the Purpose of Life

淨宗之聲 - 人生目的問答

(continuation of Q7 - 5/6)

3

From the point of view of the Pure Land School, we aspire to be reborn in the Western Land of Bliss through Amitabha-recitation. Once reborn in the Pure Land and ultimately becoming a Buddha, our loneliness will be thoroughly eliminated.

Though we are still living in the mundane world, we can understand that the Buddha and ordinary beings are really one entity. Thus, the shadow of loneliness will vanish.

Appreciation of the fortunes of life, the quality of life, the integrity and value of life, can be found in an exclusive Amitabha-reciter. Though he cannot explain it or write it down beautifully, he enjoys a rich and fulfilling life. He delightedly says farewell to the suffering of loneliness and separation experienced during life in this world.

This is because, by taking refuge in Amitabha, the Buddha of Infinite light and life, our lonely, painful, seemingly separate, and wandering lives will have deeper meaning. Our faith in Amitabha gives us spiritual comfort, and the understanding that, at the end of this life, we will be returning home to reunite with the Buddha-nature of infinite light and life.

(to be continued tomorrow)

3

而以淨土宗來說,我們念佛願生西方極樂世界,一旦到達淨土,就究竟成佛,這當然就徹底免除孤獨。

雖然還在這個世間,但也能體會到佛凡一體。雖然是凡夫,但是跟阿彌陀佛一體,這樣心中也就掃除了孤獨的陰影。

人生的幸福、人生的品質、人生的尊嚴和價值,在專修念佛人那裡,他雖然講不出來,也寫不出漂亮的文章,但是他的生命是豐富圓滿的,是喜樂的,告別了生命分離的孤獨所帶來的痛苦。

因為歸命南無阿彌陀佛這尊無量光壽的佛,我們孤獨、痛苦、分離、飄零的生命有了一種回歸無量光壽佛性生命的回家感覺、精神安慰。

Namo Amituofo!

November 7, 2023

Nov 7, 2023

Voice of Master Jingzong - Q and A about the Purpose of Life

淨宗之聲 - 人生目的問答

(continuation of Q7 - 4/6)

2

“Being born alone, and dying alone. Coming alone and going alone.” At the end of

one’s life, there is nothing you can do , and no one to accompany you. Only you

make that journey. Where to? You don’t know.

You must travel alone. Those who say farewell to you cannot join you on that trip.

That is truly a time of tremendous loneliness and fear!

Facing a future that you know nothing about, you say goodbye to this world of

complexity. It is not easy to resist that kind of loneliness and fear.

Some people may develop depression or other psychological illnesses brought on

by their loneliness. If they cannot keep their minds clear, and are unable to

overcome their loneliness, they may commit suicide.

Like many poets, writers, and artists, they are very sensitive and deeply feel the

loneliness in life. If they fail to find a way to cope, they may eventually end their

Lives.

Those who have religious faith will rely on the figures they worship, such as gods,

saints, or other holy beings, in order to receive their assistance in getting rid of

their loneliness. These approaches may be temporarily helpful; but, they are not

the ultimate answer.

So,as I said earlier, you should return to “the home of your Dharma-Nature”. You

must completely awaken your Buddha-Nature in order to become a Buddha. You will

realize that you and the entire universe are actually one entity. In this state of ultimate liberation and stability, your sense of loneliness will be thoroughly eradicated.

If you are still in the state of duality of host and guest, you have not realized the ultimate objective.

(to be continued tomorrow)

2

所謂“獨生獨死,獨去獨來”,當你的生命走向盡頭的時候,你會非常無奈,毫無旁人,唯有一個人獨自遠去。去向哪裡?不知道。

你必須一個人上路,來送的人也不可能真正送到你,這是一種巨大的孤獨和恐懼。面臨一無所知的未來,告別暫時熟悉的花花世界,這種孤獨和恐懼,一般人是難以抵抗的。

很多人抵抗不了這種孤獨,犯抑鬱症,犯種種精神毛病,其實也是孤獨感的壓迫,讓他的精神作出一種反應,通過犯這種病來遺忘它。如果他仍然保持清醒,又沒有辦法戰勝孤獨,那很可能會自殺。

像有些非常敏感的詩人、作家、藝術家,就是深刻地感受到了人生的剝離、人生的孤獨感,又沒有排遣解決的辦法,最後結束了生命。

有宗教信仰的人往往會依託他所信仰的對象,但在我們看來是假托的神和主,他假想回到神和主的懷抱,以擺脫孤獨感。

應該說,這在人類一切的文明文化中,相對來講是比較久遠一點的解決孤獨的辦法。但這個並非究竟。

所以剛才說到,“要回到佛性之都”,就是你完全覺悟佛性、成佛,與宇宙萬法一體,這種大自在、大安穩才能徹底消除孤獨感。

如果仍然有主客二元的對立,那都不是究竟的。

Namo Amituofo!

November 6, 2023

Nov 6, 2023

Voice of Master Jingzong - Q and A about the Purpose of Life

淨宗之聲 - 人生目的問答

(continuation of Q7 - 3/6)

1

In our daily lives, we sometimes feel lonely and sometimes not. Actually, if we feel lonely we are awake, because that is the time when the real understanding of life emerges.

If we don’t feel lonely, we are deluded and confused. We need activities to counteract our fear of loneliness. However, if we get lost in a lively environment, we become just like someone who is drunk, who doesn't care whether he is lonely or not.

In order to escape from loneliness, some people like to have group chats, join peer groups, form societies, and establish various kinds of organizations. Human beings are social animals, which explains why people need to escape from loneliness.

It is difficult to tolerate loneliness. So, people like to go exploring , do exercise, or take drugs for stimulation. They like to travel and participate in all kinds of social activities, such as weddings or other family gatherings. Their goal is to eliminate their loneliness. However, these are just temporary measures, they do not eliminate the root cause of their loneliness.

(to be continued tomorrow)

1

在現實生活中,我們有時覺得孤獨,有時又覺得不孤獨。

其實覺得孤獨的時候,反而是清醒的時候;因為這個時候,人生的真相會浮現出來。

當我們不覺得孤獨的時候,反而是迷茫的時候,因為我們害怕孤獨,需要熱閙,在熱閙場中迷失了自己,就好像一個人喝醉了酒,他當然也無所謂孤獨不孤獨。

也有的人為了逃避孤獨感,所謂“藉酒澆愁”。人要去合群,人要隨大眾,人要去結社,成立種種社會團體,所以說人是社會性的動物,這一切都說明了人要逃避孤獨感。

因為孤獨是難熬、難耐、難以容忍、難過的。人借助于冒險、運動、藥物麻醉等種種刺激,旅遊、婚姻、愛情、家庭等種種社會活動,以此擺脫孤獨。

但這些都只是一時的緩兵之計,並不能從根本上解決孤獨的問題。

Namo Amituofo!

November 5, 2023

Nov 5, 2023

Voice of Master Jingzong - Q and A about the Purpose of Life

淨宗之聲 - 人生目的問答

(continuation of Q7 - 2/6)

Loneliness is the real state of life. Everyone’s life unfolds in accordance with his own individual karmic force, and no other person is responsible for it.

Why does a person feel lonely? It is because he left the home of our Dharma Nature and departed from the substance and the original source of life.

It is like a wanderer who has left his warm home while in a bewildered state. It is also like a leaf that falls from a tree and is blown by the wind on to an icy surface far away. It must be lonely.

Only if we return to the home of our Buddha-Nature, return to the substance of life, the origin of life, and return to the real self, can we eradicate all feelings of loneliness.

(to be continued tomorrow)

孤獨是人生的實相,每一個人都是隨各人的業力獨自展現他的生命,沒有第二個人能夠為他負責。

人為什麼會覺得孤獨呢?是因為他離開了佛性之家,離開了生命的本體和本源。如同一個遊子,離開了溫暖的家,如同一個浪子,孤苦飄零,好像一片樹葉離開了支撐它的大樹,獨自被風吹向遠處,孤零零地躺在冰冷的地上,這當然孤獨了。

我們只有回歸到佛性之家,回歸到生命的本體、生命的源頭,回歸到真實的自我,才可以消除一切孤獨感。

Namo Amituofo!

November 4, 2023

Nov 4, 2023

Voice of Master Jingzong - Q and A about the Purpose of Life

淨宗之聲 - 人生目的問答

Question 7. Why do we sometimes feel lonely?

Answer to Q7: For me, it is not sometimes, but always. I feel lonely all the time, but my life is a healthy , rational and enlightened life.

“Wow, that is so sad, isn’t it?” Yes, it is. We live in an active environment in order to escape from our sense of isolation.

Loneliness is the actual reality of life. He is alone, having no one who truly listens or can understand his thinking.

Even a couple sleeping on the same bed can have that feeling of loneliness that cannot be communicated. Even father and son, best friends, close relatives, don’t really know each other. Because of this they cannot ease the emptiness in each other’s lonely hearts.

The Infinite Life Sutra says, “A person lives in this world of lust. He was born alone and will die alone. He comes alone and goes alone.”

(to be continued tomorrow)

問(7):為什麼我們有時候會覺得很孤獨?

淨宗之聲:

其實如果以我來說,我們不應該是有時候覺得很孤獨,而是在任何時候都應該感受到孤獨,這才是健康的人生、理性的人生、覺悟生命的人生。

“哇!每個時候都覺得很孤獨,那豈不是太難過了?”是的。所以大家都在熱熱閙閙、紛紛囂囂當中逃離孤獨的場景。

孤獨其實是人生的實相。就是說他孤孤單單,無人傾吐心聲,沒有第二個人瞭解他的心思。

即使是同床共枕的夫妻之間,仍然有不可溝通的孤獨感;即使是父子、親朋、關係至親的人,在對方內心深處仍然有不可探知的地方,對方也無法慰藉我們這顆孤獨的心。

《無量壽經》就說:“人在世間愛慾之中,獨生獨死,獨去獨來。”

Namo Amituofo!

November 3, 2023

Nov 3, 2023

The Patriarchal Lineage of the Pure Land Teaching - Master Shandao

善導大師

In his Commentary on the Contemplation Sutra, Master Shandao talks about the Five Primary Practices (Sutra-recitation, visualization, prostration, name-recitation, praising and making offerings), and identifies name-recitation as the karma of assurance. This name-recitation is reciting Amitabha’s Name naturally, without any pretensions, and deep faith in “assured rebirth with recourse to the Buddha’s vow power”.

善導大師《觀經疏》所言之五正行(讀誦、觀察、禮拜、稱名、讚歎、供養)是以「稱名」為正定業,此稱名亦是深信「乘佛願力,定得往生」之後,任運自然不造作之稱名。

Namo Amituofo!

November 2, 2023

Nov 2, 2023

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

正雜二行判

Bowing to Amitabha while reciting his Name is a recommended practice. However, if the one he bows to is not Amitabha, the bowing is not considered to be a “supportive karma.” This is because the merit and virtues of bowing for rebirth are not directly related to the bowing itself ; but, only as an accompaniment to reciting Amitabha’s Name.

So, bowing to Amitabha Buddha for rebirth is only effective when reciting Amitabha’s Name. If a practitioner thinks that, without bowing, he will not accumulate adequate meritorious practices or credentials for rebirth, he attaches too much value to bowing. Then bowing will become a miscellaneous practice among the primary practices for rebirth, not the exclusive practice for rebirth.

如果一方面念佛,一方面禮拜,那還可以,但如果禮拜的對象不是阿彌陀佛,就不成為這個法門的助行。而且,禮拜的往生功德不在於禮拜的本身,而是因為有這一句名號,所以禮拜阿彌陀佛,一方面禮拜,一方面念佛,才有往生的功能;如果執著自己非禮佛拜佛不可,否則功行不夠,資糧有缺,這樣就成為正行當中的雜修,而不是專修了。

Namo Amituofo!

November 1, 2023

Nov 1, 2023

Common Knowledge in Pure Land Teaching

淨土小常識

104 Amitabha-Recitation Transcends All of the Various Virtues

The power, merit, and virtues of Amitabha-recitation are transcendent. It transcends the power of the meditative, non-meditative, and all other virtues.

Master Shandao says, “The Samadhi of Amitabha-Recitation is transcendent and none of the other miscellaneous virtues can be compared.” The Contemplation Sutra mentions 13 kinds of meditative virtues in detail. It also explains 3 non-meditative virtues, their causes, functions, and effects, for those within the nine levels of practitioners.

The Contemplation Sutra talks, to a large extent, about the meditative and non-meditative virtues in the beginning of the main chapter. However, in the dissemination chapter at the end, Master Shandao explains that none of the other practices have virtues that are equal to Amitabha-recitation. This same comparison can be extended to include all of the other 84,000 Buddhist teachings.

It should be noted that, in the Contemplation Sutra, “Nianfo” refers to Amitabha-recitation, not visualizing Amitabha, or observing Amitabha’s image. Amitabha-recitation seems to be ordinary and very simple. It can be recited even by birds and children. However, its power, merit and virtues are transcendent, because it is the recitation of the Name of Amitabha Buddha, the King of all

Buddhas. It is the Name that contains the merit and virtues gained through Amitabha’s perfect Enlightenment. So, the teaching of Amitabha-recitation is easy to practice; but, its rewards are splendid.

104 念佛超越諸善萬行

「專稱彌陀佛名」的功德力用是超越的,超越定善、散善,超越諸善萬行。

善導大師說:「念佛三昧功能超絕,實非雜善得為比類。」說明念佛不是其他的善所能並肩、比類的。《觀經》用很長的文字在解說十三種觀,同時也說明三福及其功能。也就是說三福為因,九品為果(善導大師說「三福九品,名為散善」)。

亦即,從行文看,《觀經》從一開始,文文句句都是在講解十三觀(定善)與三福九品(散善);可是到了流通分,善導大師卻解釋說,念佛不是其他的雜善所可以比較的。

雜善,就是《觀經》所說的定善、散善;展開來說,就是念佛之外的八萬四千法門。這裡的念佛,當然是《觀經》付囑文所講的「持無量壽佛名」,而不是「觀無量壽佛像」的觀想或觀像。

念佛看來似乎毫不起眼,非常簡單,有嘴巴就可以念佛,甚至鳥兒也可以念佛,小孩子無知無識也可以念佛,可是功德力用卻是超絕的。因為這是佛中之王的阿彌陀佛的名號,這句名號涵蓋著阿彌陀佛的正覺功德在裡面,因此念佛之法簡易卻超勝。

Namo Amituofo!

October 31, 2023

Oct 31, 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

Tathagatas extend their tongues to attest,

And to confirm that all sentient beings, with different aptitudes within the nine levels, can return to their homeland.

The Father and his children bow to each other in the great assembly.

They ask about their painful experiences in the Six Realms.

Some have attained a human or heavenly karmic reward.

Some have suffered from starvation with their bodies covered with sores.

Upon hearing of these painful experiences, Amitabha and a multitude of beings sigh with deep compassion,

When they hear the children’s sad stories.

Amitabha tells all the children,

They should accept their consequences and not blame others.

十方如來舒舌證,定判九品得還歸。

父子相迎入大會,即問六道苦辛事,

或有所得人天報,饑餓困苦體生瘡。

爾時彌陀及大眾,聞子說苦皆傷嘆;

彌陀告言諸佛子,自作自受莫怨他。

Namo Amituofo!

October 30, 2023

Oct 30, 2023

Master Huijing’s Short Dharma Teaching about Impermanence

慧淨法師之無常法語

With the passage of eighty thousand eons all life will become extinct.

All of the three thousand worlds are declining and will ultimately disappear.

八萬劫總是空亡,三千界悉從淪沒。

Namo Amituofo!

October 29, 2023

Oct 29, 2023

Voice of Master Jingzong - Q and A about the Purpose of Life

淨宗之聲 - 人生目的問答

(continuation of Q6 - 3/3)

The third and most important one, in terms of rebirth, is to recite Namo Amituofo! The meaning of “Namo Amituofo” is to take refuge in Amitabha Buddha, the Buddha of Infinite Life and Infinite Light, who can deliver sentient beings perfectly and completely.

Our life can be: short, dark, distorted, imperfect, and incomplete, with many shortcomings and deficiencies.

When we take refuge in Amitabha, we are like drops of water returning to the sea. When a drop of water is on land or in the air, it may evaporate and disappear. In contrast, when this drop of water returns to the sea, it will be as deep and vast as the sea.

You say you are not happy with your present life; but, if you become the same as Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, Manjusri Bodhisattva, or Amitabha Buddha, you will be incredibly satisfied and happy forever!!!

This concept is profound. So, I hope you form a karmic connection and explore it a bit more deeply in the future.

◇ 第三,最重要的,就是念南無阿彌陀佛。

“南無阿彌陀佛”的意思就是歸命具有無量光明和無量壽命,覺悟、救度眾生的圓滿的佛陀。

我們的生命怎麼樣都是短暫的、黑暗的、扭曲的,不是究竟圓滿的,而是有種種的殘缺和不足。

如果我們歸命于阿彌陀佛無量光明和無量壽命的佛的生命,就像一滴水歸投大海一樣——一滴水遲早要干的,歸到大海,它就會跟大海一樣深、一樣廣,一樣具有波濤。

你說“對自己這輩子非常不滿意”,如果你能跟觀世音菩薩一樣,跟文殊菩薩一樣,跟阿彌陀佛一樣,相信一定就非常滿意了。

方法很簡單,就是念南無阿彌陀佛往生西方極樂世界。

這個道理要深講的話,就太深太廣了。希望你有機緣去進一步瞭解這一方面。

Namo Amituofo!