The Arhat’s Journey and the Magnificence of the Pure Land

The Rigorous Path of the Arhat

An Arhat is recognised as one of the sages within the Four Sacred Realms. The journey to this state is a rigorous process of spiritual progression. One must first attain the fruit of a Srota-apanna, then progress to the fruit of a Sakrdagamin, and subsequently the fruit of an Anagamin, before finally realising the fourth fruit, which is the Arhat. These sages of the Four Sacred Realms—comprising Arhats, Pratyekabuddhas, Bodhisattvas, and Buddhas—have successfully transcended the cycle of birth and death. They have severed their afflictions, escaped the three realms of existence, and are no longer subject to the six realms of rebirth, thus residing among the ranks of the sages.

To reach such a state of holiness through one's own individual effort is an exceptionally difficult task, requiring immense discipline and perseverance.

The Magnificent Grace of the Two-Power Path

In contrast to the self-power path of the Arhat, the Pure Land Dharma Gate is a path of two-fold power: the combination of one's own diligent practice and the majestic power of Namo Amituofo. For those who practise the Pure Land path, the diligent application of one's efforts is met with the compassionate support of Namo Amituofo’s blessings. This Buddha-power provides essential assistance, ensuring that one's practice remains smooth and that one's spiritual growth is accelerated. This is why the Pure Land Dharma Gate is considered the most magnificent and effective path for attaining success in this age of the Dharma’s decline.

The Presence of Sages in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss

One might wonder: if the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss is a realm of the One Vehicle—a place specifically for attaining Buddhahood—why does the name of the Arhat appear there? In this context, the term Arhat is used to describe a specific level of spiritual accomplishment. It refers to those superior beings who have successfully ended the cycle of birth and death and have completely severed their afflictions. These are individuals who have awakened their Bodhicitta and who focus their entire heart and mind on chanting Namo Amituofo. Only those who have reached this level of purity and dedication can enter the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, where they reside in the Land of Expedient Remainder.

The Unseen Sages Within the Saha World

The Saha world, our current realm, is known as the Land Where Sages and Ordinary Beings Dwell Together. It is a place where Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, Arhats, and the beings of the six realms of rebirth all coexist. The reason we do not perceive these sages is simply that our physical eyes are limited by our own karmic obstructions. However, for those practitioners who have achieved significant success in their practice and whose spiritual eyes have been opened, the presence of these holy beings becomes visible. They are always among us, guiding those who are ready to receive their wisdom.

The Direct Path to Buddhahood

The core of the Pure Land practice is simple yet profound: one must chant Namo Amituofo all the way to the end. This practice leads to success because the Buddha-name itself contains the infinite power of merit and the majestic power of Namo Amituofo. When you chant with a sincere heart, you receive the Buddha's blessings, which allow for a rapid and convenient purification of your body, mind, and spirit. This is the most direct way to realise your true nature and attain Buddhahood. It is a magnificent path that ensures your rebirth in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. I encourage all who hear or read these words to cultivate a sincere heart, to be diligent in your practice of chanting, and to strive for the highest achievement as soon as possible.

Namo Amituofo