From the Depths of Hell to the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss

This is a record of an interview with Lay Practitioner Chen Jing, who sought deliverance at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia. She now resides in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. This account reflects upon her journey from the depths of suffering to the light of the Buddha. Recorded by the chief writer, Shi Fajing, on June 20, 2025.

Lay Practitioner Chen Jing speaks:

"Namo Amituofo. I opened my eyes and closed them again several times, trying to confirm that I had truly arrived in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. Only then did my heart finally settle into a state of peace.

I do not know how I could be so fortunate. After such a long time, I still had the opportunity to be saved. I truly could not believe it, but the reality before me confirms that I have indeed been rescued. Everything here is real.

The Fog of Suffering and the Buddha-light

When I was first rescued by Practitioner Su, my mind was still hazy and unclear. The scenes before me felt both real and like a dream; however, I was certain of one thing: I was no longer suffering. The agony I had endured was gone.

Later, the Buddha-light shone upon me continuously, and my mind became clearer and clearer. I began to see clearly that before me stood the Buddha—a magnificent, towering Buddha—surrounded by many Bodhisattvas. I had never seen such Buddha or Bodhisattvas before. My heart was filled with immense joy, and I began to chant Buddha's name continuously.

The Sound of the Dharma

As I became more lucid, I began to hear Practitioner Su giving Dharma talks. In truth, Practitioner Su had been speaking the whole time, but I had been too clouded to perceive it. It was as if I had been deaf to the truth. Only after I fully awakened and heard the Dharma did I realise that it was Practitioner Su who had saved me. It was Practitioner Su who used her skills to pull me out of the hells where I was suffering retribution.

I myself could hardly believe how I had ended up in the hells. It was because my past karmic debts had not been settled, and during my life, I had harboured negative mental notes and spoken words that I should not have. That is what led to me being dragged into the hells to suffer retribution.

A Vow of Repenting and Gratitude

I have already been repenting, but I must continue to do so. I know that many sentient beings whom I harmed in the past are still suffering. I want to save them and take responsibility for them. That is why, ever since I regained my clarity, I have been chanting Buddha's name without ceasing.

Today, I have been brought to the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss by Practitioner Su. I am deeply grateful, and I do not know how I could ever repay such a profound kindness. I also know that it was my family in the world who helped save me, and I thank them as well.

Namo Amituofo.

Chen Jing bows in reverence."