Continuing the Journey Toward the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss

Words of Namo Amituofo, recorded and transcribed by Namo Amituofo’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe.

The practice of the Pure Land path is a profound journey of transformation. It is the transition from this shore—the worldly realm of the Five Turbidities and Evil World—to the other shore, the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. During this voyage, you will encounter various situations. Understand that these are merely the manifestations of karmic conditions and the causes and effects that arise and cease according to your Dharma affinity.

The Sacred Foundation of Daily Practice

For those who have not yet transformed their karma or realised their true nature, it is essential to establish a consistent daily practice. Please take the following as your daily lessons to receive the Buddha’s blessings and strengthen your faith:

• Chanting the name of Namo Amituofo: This is the core of your practice, allowing you to connect directly with the Buddha's light.
• Prostrations: By bowing to the Buddha, you humble your ego and open your heart to receive wisdom.
• Reciting the Sutras: This helps to purify your mind and align your thoughts with the teachings of the Buddha.

As your faith grows, your vow to reach the Western Land will become clear and unshakable. With this strength, your practice will become powerful, and you will be able to continue your journey forward without hesitation.

A Ray of Light Amidst the Turbid World

The defiled and evil world of suffering is filled with pollution that makes life unbearable for sentient beings. Yet, you must continue to live within it for now. In this darkness, a ray of light appears: Namo Amituofo and the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. When those who are fortunate enough to hear this teaching awaken, they naturally develop a heart that wishes to leave this world behind. They begin to chant the name of Namo Amituofo and make the sincere vow to be reborn in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss.

The Lifeboat of Infinite Compassion

Imagine a person who is drowning in the vast sea of karma, about to sink into the depths. Suddenly, they see a lifeline or a floating plank thrown to them. They must grasp it tightly and never let go. By holding on, they are rescued and brought to the shore, escaping the sea of karma and avoiding the fate of being submerged forever. This is exactly how the Buddha’s compassion works for us.

The Eternal Vow to Save All Beings

Once you have been rescued and brought to the other shore, you must continue to follow the path of the One who saved you. You will eventually reach the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. However, the journey does not end there. You must continue to practise until you attain Buddhahood. In that realm, you will no longer suffer, but only receive all happiness.

Even then, your journey continues. You will return to the worldly realm with a heart of no-self and selflessness. Sharing the same vow as Namo Amituofo, you will work to save all boundless suffering sentient beings. Because the suffering of beings is endless, the work of salvation has no stopping point.

Namo Amituofo