From the Depths of Hell to the Western Pure Land

This is a record of an interview with Ma Jianguo, who sought Chao Du at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia. He now resides in the Western Land of Dharma Nature. This account reflects upon his journey after passing away. Recorded by the chief writer, Fa Ning, on January 2, 2026.

Ma Jianguo speaks:

"Namo Amituofo. I never imagined that I would actually learn to chant the Buddha's name! It is truly an inconceivable thing. In the past, I wouldn't even have used a word like 'inconceivable,' but now, I understand the meaning behind so many Buddhist terms. All of this is because of the guidance of Namo Amituofo and Practitioner Su, who brought me to this extraordinary place—the Western Land of Dharma Nature. I am especially grateful to my younger sister, Ma Yanqing, for performing the Chao Du for me. This entire sequence of events feels absolutely miraculous. I am filled with such profound gratitude. Who would have thought that after dying and falling into the hells, I would still have the chance to ascend to such a magnificent world?"

The Burden of a Stubborn Heart

"To be honest, while I was alive, I didn't truly believe in the Buddha. I only believed in the various trivialities of this world, and I held onto my own strong, subjective opinions and personality. Back then, how could we have known that being subjective was a bad thing? In modern society, people often advocate that everyone should have their own opinions, be unique, and stand out so that others see you as special. Everyone has their own views, and we were taught that this kind of personality is necessary to establish oneself in society. Because of this, I became a person with very strong self-attachment. I wanted others to listen to me, and deep down, I was always convinced that I was the one who was right and that my analysis was the best.

It was only after arriving in the Western Land of Dharma Nature and listening to Practitioner Su’s Dharma talks that I realised one must not have such a stubborn personality or subjective views. If you do, it awakens all the karmic creditors you have offended, and that is a truly terrifying prospect! If we don't truly practise the Buddha's teachings, we have no idea how much debt we have accumulated or how we are supposed to repay it. If it were a case of 'a life for a life,' where would we ever find enough lives to repay our debts?"

A Second Chance at Life

"I am very fortunate that we encountered Namo Amituofo. Because of my sister, Ma Yanqing, I had the chance, years after my death, to turn my life around and encounter the true Buddhist education. I finally understood that the retribution I suffered was something I deserved; I could not blame anyone else. Therefore, I am now filled with nothing but gratitude and emotion. Not only was I given this chance to be reborn, but many of my karmic creditors who have an affinity with me were also given the opportunity to learn the Buddha's teachings and to know Namo Amituofo. It is only through the power of the Buddha that I can repay them. Although I know this is just a drop in the ocean because I owe so much, it does not matter. I believe that as long as I diligently practise in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss, one day I will definitely be able to return and save them.

Speaking of which, I must say that the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss is truly too beautiful—it is far more beautiful than any photograph of the most stunning scenery on Earth. Furthermore, I have no afflictions at all; I feel completely refreshed and at peace, and I no longer need to be burdened by the endless, exhausting thoughts of the mundane world. Thinking back, I was truly suffering without even knowing it. Only now do I believe in the Buddha, and I am so grateful to have been guided to rebirth in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss."

A Message to the Living

"I only want to tell my family who are still in the world: do not be too attached to this fleeting life. It has no real meaning. Everything you grasp so tightly will eventually scatter and fade away. It would be much better to chant Namo Amituofo more often. Especially to my sister, Yanqing—it is time for you to let go. Focus your heart on chanting the Buddha's name. Whether you are working, doing chores, or speaking, always try to keep the Buddha in your heart. Do not forget the Buddha. Remember, only the Buddha can save us ordinary people.

Well, I will stop here. Everyone, just remember this one phrase: 'Namo Amituofo'—that is all you need!"

"Namo Amituofo."

Ma Jianguo