A Journey to the Western Pure Land: The Testimony of Xie Zhibin

This is a record of an interview with Xie Zhibin, a friend of Lay Practitioner Zheng Xiaoyun, who sought Chao Du at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia. He now resides in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. This account reflects upon his life and his transition to the Pure Land. Recorded by the chief writer, Shi Faxi, on January 21, 2022.

Xie Zhibin speaks:

"Namo Amituofo. On this truly magnificent and auspicious day, I have made the choice to be reborn in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. Looking back on the long, arduous road that brought me here, I realise that everyone has endured so much hardship. In this human life, eight or nine out of every ten things do not go as we wish. We often feel that we have no choice in the matter, yet we must face these trials head-on, regardless of how painful they may be.

The Long Road to Liberation

Since the moment my life in the human world ended, I have traversed a path filled with immense, crushing suffering. I am profoundly grateful to the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia, and specifically to Practitioner Su, for reaching out to save me. It was only through this intervention that my spirit was finally able to find liberation. I am also deeply thankful to my friend, Zheng Xiaoyun, for arranging the Chao Du for me. Having a friend like you is truly the greatest blessing I have ever received in this lifetime.

When I was alive, there were so many things I clung to; my heart was heavy, and I found it nearly impossible to let go of my attachments. Thankfully, I have now encountered the teachings of the Buddha, which have guided me to open my heart and release those burdens. I can now clearly see that this entire life was merely an illusion. I have witnessed my past lives, and I have looked upon this current life with new eyes. I am filled with gratitude for everyone I encountered during my time on Earth, including my dear family. I know that I was not a perfect person, but standing here before the Buddha, I sincerely repent for my past actions. I have made a vow to the Buddha that I will diligently practise and strive to transform myself completely.

The Truth of the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre

The Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre is truly a place where the Buddha resides; it is here that I received my salvation. I know that there are still many people in the world who harbour doubts about these matters. However, after experiencing this transformation for myself, I want to tell everyone: rumours are silenced by the wise. You must choose to be that wise person. Save yourself, and in doing so, you will also be able to save your family members and friends who are connected to you by karmic affinity. Do not be swayed by hearsay; instead, use your own heart to feel the truth.

I am Xie Zhibin, and before I conclude, I want to tell you all: 'Having the Buddha present is truly the greatest blessing of all!' You must cherish this opportunity and be proactive in your practice. We all have the potential to escape this cycle of suffering! I will be waiting for all of you to arrive here in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss.

I offer my deepest gratitude to Practitioner Su and to every Venerable at the centre. Namo Amituofo."

Xie Zhibin, with palms joined in reverence.