Awakening from the Dream of Samsara

This is a record of an interview with the spirit of Li Dengquan, 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 past lives and his recent transition. Recorded by the chief writer, Shi Faxin, on February 2, 2024.

Li Dengquan speaks:

"Namo Amituofo. When I finally beheld the Buddha, I felt such profound, overwhelming gratitude. It is difficult to put into words.

The moment I saw the Buddha, I was instantly shown the image of myself from a past life when I had been a monastic. Back then, I held such deep faith in the Buddha; I made a solemn vow that I would surely attain liberation. Yet, that was not the outcome I achieved. Instead, I fell into the cycle of rebirth. I transformed into countless different forms—man, woman, animal, wealthy, and destitute. Seeing life after life pass before my eyes, I could not bear to look any longer. The cycle of samsara has left me with such deep, gnawing regret. The physical suffering I endured in this final lifetime was all a result of those past causes.

The Weight of Past Lives

Only after seeing these truths clearly was I truly able to let go of everything I clung to while I was in the body of Li Dengquan. It may be difficult for my family to believe what I have seen, but these visions are the absolute, unvarnished truth of my past. Each of those lifetimes felt so brief, yet I grasped onto them so tightly. Now, it feels as though I have just awakened from a series of long, exhausting dreams.

To my daughter-in-law, with whom I share this karmic affinity: thank you for arranging the Chao Du for your father-in-law. You and my son are both people who have worked so hard in this life. Although there are many circumstances in life that we simply cannot control, I hope you can both find a way to move forward. Do not let these burdens weigh down your hearts. I know that wishing for you to be free of all afflictions is a tall order, but please, try to let go.

A Message from the Western Land

I now reside in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss, dwelling in the presence of the Buddha. Many people may have the karmic affinity to believe this, and if you are among those who do, please share this wonderful news with others. The Buddha is so incredibly compassionate toward us all.

If the conditions are right, you must diligently practise the Dharma. You must also place your full faith in the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre. If it were not for the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre, and if it were not for Practitioner Su, I would never have been able to reach the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss.

A Final Plea for Peace

My hope for you both is that you will broaden your hearts and not allow yourselves to be trapped by worldly concerns. I have already departed; I can no longer offer you advice in person, nor can I watch over you as I once did. I only hope that you will follow the Buddha and let Him take care of you. If you do that, I can finally be at peace.

With humble prostrations, Li Dengquan."

Namo Amituofo.