The Buddha's Vow: Saving the Unsaved and Perfecting the Awakened

The Boundless Compassion of the Buddha

Buddhas and Bodhisattvas walk within this world, moving through the six realms of existence and the four sacred realms. Their compassion is boundless, containing not even a single trace of self-interest or personal desire. Every action they take is entirely for the sake of all beings. It is for the sake of these beings that they manifest their great vows of compassion, and it is for the sake of these beings that they practise such profound mercy.

The vow to save all beings is not merely a concept; it is a living, breathing reality. The core of this mission is expressed in the words: "Those who have not yet been saved, I shall save; those who have already been saved, I shall guide to Buddhahood." This is the practical application of the great vow to save infinite beings.

The Twofold Mission of Salvation

When we engage in the practice of the Six Perfections and work to form positive connections with others, we are actively saving those who have not yet been liberated. However, the work does not end there. Even for those who have already been saved, the path to the Buddha's path is not yet complete. They still require guidance, teaching, and the necessary support to continue their purification until they reach a state of absolute purity.

By diligently practising the Six Perfections, upholding the pure precepts, and achieving meditative concentration, one's wisdom will naturally unfold. This leads to Awakening, where one realises their true nature. This is what is meant by the second part of the vow: guiding those who have already been saved to the ultimate attainment of Buddhahood.

The Infinite Reach of the Dharma

Sentient beings are spread throughout the entire Dharma Realm, across every star system and every corner of space. They exist everywhere: on land, in the air, and within the vast oceans. Even the smallest elements—the air molecules, the soil, the dust, and the water molecules—are filled with sentient beings. When we observe the conditions of these beings, we see that there is no distinction between those who are saved and those who are not. Every single being is capable of being saved, and every single being is a recipient of the Buddha's grace. The Buddha does not abandon a single person. Through the process of teaching and salvation, we can give rise to all roots of goodness and achieve the fruit of Bodhi.

Skillful Means at Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre

At the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Goombungee, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia, where Namo Amituofo truly abides, Practitioner Su uses the sacred images and the written word to guide all beings. By encouraging them to chant the name of Namo Amituofo, he ensures that the Vajra Seed of Bodhi is planted within them. Once it enters the ear, it becomes a seed for the Path forever. This is the skillful means of saving those who have not yet been liberated.

Furthermore, the installation of the Buddha boards serves as a subtle and profound method of Dharma. These boards act as a constant reminder, a beacon of light that continues the work of saving the unsaved and guiding those who have already been saved toward the ultimate goal of Buddhahood. Through these methods, the light of the Buddha continues to shine, ensuring that no being is left behind in the cycle of rebirth.

Namo Amituofo