Faith, Understanding, and Remembrance: The Supreme Path of Dharmakara Bhikshu
Words of Namo Amituofo
January 10, 2026
The Supreme Qualities of
Teachings from Namo Amituofo, recorded and transcribed by Namo Amituofo’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe. In the fourth chapter of The Infinite Sutra (The Buddha Speaks the , Infinite Life, Adornment, Purity, Impartiality, and Sutra), which details the causal ground of Dharmakara Bhikshu, it is mentioned that when he was walking the path of the , he possessed extraordinary talents and wisdom. Beyond his exceptional intellect, he was also described as having faith, understanding, and remembrance that were all supreme, surpassing all others.
When we speak of this state of faith, understanding, and remembrance, we must first look at the meaning of faith. In this context, faith refers to two inseparable pillars: faith in the Buddha and faith in one's own original nature. From ancient times until the present day, this principle has remained the unchanging foundation for anyone who wishes to achieve spiritual success in their practice of the Buddha's path.
The True Meaning of Faith and Understanding
To become a Buddha is to be one who clearly understands the true reality of all things. It is to be a practitioner who lives in complete alignment with the Universal Principles, Truth, and the Right Path. What does it mean to have faith and understanding? It means that one is capable of comprehending the teachings imparted by those who have already attained Buddhahood or who have realised their true nature.
Furthermore, it means that one is able to:
- Follow these teachings with complete sincerity and devotion.
- Ensure that one's heart and one's words are in perfect harmony.
- Grasp the true reality of existence.
- Clearly understand and uphold the Universal Principles, Truth, and the Right Path.
- Cultivate correct faith and correct understanding, which allows one to plant good causes and reap good fruits.
By doing so, one will naturally give rise to all and achieve the fruit of Bodhi.
The Perils of Confusion
Conversely, those who have not yet attained this level of faith and understanding are those who have failed to follow the teachings of the Buddhas and awakened beings. Because they do not follow the teachings, their hearts and words are often inconsistent. They may misunderstand the true reality of existence and fail to recognise the importance of the Universal Principles, Truth, and the Right Path.
Without this correct faith and understanding, one inevitably plants negative causes, which lead to evil consequences. This often manifests as becoming entangled in the : wealth, lust, fame, food, and sleep. When one is driven by these desires, one creates the negative causes that lead to the evil consequences of falling into the hells. This is why the clarity of one's understanding is so vital to the safety of one's spiritual journey.
The Compassionate Vow of the Western Land
Dharmakara Bhikshu was not only a master of faith and understanding, but he also possessed a supreme memory and a profound ability to understand the underlying principles of reality. His capacity for remembrance was unmatched, and his wisdom was beyond compare. This was the state of his practice as he observed the suffering of all beings.
He saw that in this turbid world, it is not easy for beings to practise the . Moved by great , he vowed to quickly attain Bodhi and to be fiercely diligent in his efforts to save all suffering beings. Within his Forty-eight Great Vows, he made a solemn promise regarding the Buddha-land he would create:
- Anyone who enters this of Ultimate Bliss will be guaranteed to attain supreme enlightenment.
- They will successfully attain Buddhahood.
- They will establish their own Buddha-nature within, and in turn, will be able to widely save other beings, helping them to also become Buddhas.
This is the essential purpose for which Dharmakara Bhikshu established the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. It is a sanctuary of purity and dignity, designed specifically to ensure that every being who enters can return to their true self and fulfil the ultimate goal of the Buddha's path. Namo Amituofo.
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About the Author
Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre
Contributed to Pure Land Buddhism knowledge library