The Preciousness of a Single Human Lifetime
The Forty-Second Letter of Venerable Master Sheng Yen
Recorded by the disciple Shi Faxi on July 29, 2017
This interview features Venerable Master Sheng Yen, the founder of Drum Mountain, who sought deliverance through the compassionate guidance of the Hsiang Kuang Buddhist Centre. Now residing in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, he shared these reflections on July 29, 2017, to remind all practitioners of the urgency of their mission.
Venerable Master Sheng Yen speaks:
"Practising the Buddha’s teachings is a sacred task. Being a monastic is an even more sacred mission, for there is no greater endeavour in this world. We must propagate and spread these teachings widely so that all beings may benefit. As monastics, we must bravely shoulder the heavy responsibility of the Tathagata’s work. Only then can you truly be called a disciple of the Buddha’s gate. That we have chosen the Buddha’s teachings in this lifetime, and that we are able to study them, is an immense karmic fortune. We must cherish this and seize the opportunity. We do not know how long we have sought this, how long we have waited for this."
The Terrifying Reality of the Six Realms of Rebirth
"In the cycle of reincarnation, we will not be human in every lifetime. We rotate through the ten directions, but primarily, we are trapped in the six realms of rebirth. This is absolutely terrifying. Among all beings, it is highly probable that we will eventually have to suffer the consequences of our past actions. Only now, as a master, do I truly understand: the human body lasts only for one lifetime. In the next life, can we be certain of where we will go? The animal realm, the hells, or the ghost realm—all are possibilities. It all depends on your Causal Conditions. These Causal Conditions are the workings of the laws of and cause and effect. It is truly frightening. If it is possible, I hope everyone will seize the moment now to seek rebirth in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. This is the most perfect of all Causal Conditions."
A Master’s Urgent Plea for Deliverance
"Since you address me as Master, you should listen to my words. I would never lead you astray. I am the founder of Dharma Drum Mountain, and I remain your eternal, non-retiring guide. I want everyone to achieve rebirth in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss; only then does our practice have true meaning. You must remember my words: seeking rebirth in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss is of the utmost importance. The Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss can be witnessed right here. I hope that the twelve Dharma heirs I have passed my lineage to will come here, to the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre, to engage in an exchange of the Dharma lineage. Because rebirth in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss is truly, fundamentally important, everyone must come. Namo Amituofo."
More from Master Sheng Yen
The Truth Beyond the Dharma Drum
A candid reflection from the late Venerable Master Sheng Yen on his life, his journey through the afterlife, and his urgent plea for his followers to seek rebirth in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss.
Breaking Through the Karmic Conditions of the Past
Venerable Master Sheng Yen reflects on his life, the weight of his karmic debts, and his profound gratitude for the opportunity to deliver sentient beings through the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre.
The Burden of a Master's Legacy
Venerable Master Sheng Yen reflects on his past life, the weight of his karmic debts, and his profound gratitude for the deliverance offered at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre.
The Cycle of Reincarnation: A Final Warning
Master Sheng Yen reflects on his past teachings, the limitations of self-power practice in the Dharma-Ending Age, and the urgent necessity of the Pure Land Dharma Gate for true liberation from the six realms of rebirth.
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About the Author
Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre
Contributed to Pure Land Buddhism knowledge library