From the Darkness to the Western Pure Land

This is a record of an interview with Lay Practitioner Chen Wenpei, who sought deliverance at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia. He now resides in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. This account reflects upon his transition from the cycle of rebirth to the Western Pure Land. Recorded by the chief writer, Shi Faxin, on April 26, 2024.

Lay Practitioner Chen Wenpei speaks:

"Namo Amituofo—Namo Amituofo—I am filled with gratitude to the Buddha, and gratitude to Practitioner Su. I only remember that I was trapped in a place from which I could not find my way out, no matter how hard I tried. I was so incredibly anxious, gasping for air, breath after breath. I had been wandering in circles for such a long time, and my heart was gripped by fear. It was only after what felt like an eternity that a brilliant light finally enveloped me, guiding me toward a place of radiance. At last, I had found my way out.

The Cooling Grace of the Buddha-Land

Upon arriving at this Buddha-land, my head and my entire being felt so cool and refreshed—far more comfortable than when I still possessed a physical body. It was only recently that I truly came to know the Buddha. Since arriving here, I have witnessed the Buddha leading countless sentient beings to this place, and seeing these magnificent scenes has made me realise just how great the Buddha truly is. I am filled with deep admiration for the Buddha, and I am equally filled with admiration for Practitioner Su. From that moment on, I have been listening to the sutras with the utmost sincerity every single day. As the Buddha-light shines upon me, I can feel myself beginning to change, and I have truly begun to place my faith in the Buddha.

A Life of Wandering and the Noble Encounter

Only now do I realise that I had been wandering aimlessly for so long, until I was finally rescued by the Buddha. I have encountered the greatest noble people of my existence, which is why I did not hesitate for long before deciding to seek rebirth in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. Now, at last, I am here before the Buddha, kneeling in reverence.

My child, thank you for helping your father connect with this karmic condition to follow the Buddha. In the past, I never truly felt the goodness of practising the Buddha’s teachings, nor did I understand their importance. It was only after I passed away and found myself unable to escape that darkness that I had to rely on the Buddha to save me. The radiance of a single Buddha-name led me out of the darkness and into the light. Now, all I can do is offer my deepest thanks.

A Father's Final Guidance

My child, I hope that you can begin to re-plan your life from this moment forward. Integrate the Buddha’s teachings into your daily life and come to understand the importance of liberation for your own sake. Even a small change or positive influence from you can inspire your family members and provide you with the opportunity to resolve conflicts with your own karmic creditors.

You are a child with good roots, and your heart is very soft. I hope that you can share the goodness of the Buddha’s teachings with everyone, allowing more people to leave suffering behind. I have great faith in you.

With palms pressed together, Chen Wenpei."