The Meaning of the Dragon and Elephant in the Buddha's Gate
Words of Namo Amituofo
Words of Namo Amituofo, recorded by the chief writer, Venerable HaiZe, on the fourteenth of November, 2021.
The Symbolism of Nobility and Strength
In the context of Chinese culture, the dragon has long been a symbol of the emperor's supreme nobility and dignity. Within the Buddha's gate, however, the elephant is revered as a powerful spiritual creature, one capable of carrying heavy burdens across vast distances. When we combine these two symbols, we arrive at the concept of the Dragon and Elephant. This represents a practitioner who possesses great utility, immense strength, and profound courage.
The Bearers of the
To be known as a Dragon and Elephant of the Buddha's gate is a high honour. It describes those who have taken upon themselves the heavy responsibility of propagating and passing on the Buddha's teachings to future generations. These individuals are the pillars of the community, capable of enduring the weight of the mission to save all beings. Such a practitioner must necessarily possess the ability to be an awakened being, drawing upon the power of the Buddha to guide their actions.
The Foundation of the
A true Dragon and Elephant of the Buddha's gate must embody the Four Immeasurables: , , , and . Furthermore, they must possess the unwavering courage to move forward on the path without fear. This courage is rooted in the Four Great Vows, which serve as the fundamental commitment for every such practitioner:
- Beings are infinite; I vow to save them all.
- Afflictions are endless; I vow to eliminate them all.
- The Dharma gates are boundless; I vow to learn them all.
- The Buddha's path is supreme; I vow to attain it.
These vows are the bedrock of one's practice. Every aspiration to save beings that arises in the heart is encompassed within these Four Great Vows. When a vow is made with such sincerity, it becomes a powerful force, enabling the practitioner to act and to succeed in their mission.
An Exhortation to the Students
To the students of Hsiang Kuang Buddhist Centre, I encourage you to take the ideal of the Dragon and Elephant as your own standard. Use it to motivate and inspire yourselves in your daily practice. Remain active and persistent, never ceasing in your efforts as you walk the path toward becoming an awakened being. Namo Amituofo.
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Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre
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