The Sacred Resonance of Recitation and Deliverance: An Interview with Skanda Bodhisattva

Teachings on the Infinite Life Sutra and the Deliverance of Water Spirits

Recorded on January 12, 2021

Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre1 min read0 views

The Invisible Congregation of the

When the fourfold assembly of disciples at Hsiang Kuang Buddhist Centre begins their daily practice of reciting the Infinite Life Sutra, a magnificent and solemn scene unfolds that transcends the limitations of our physical perception. In the space invisible to the physical eye, the area above the heads of the disciples and surrounding the Little White House is filled with a boundless, shimmering congregation of beings. These beings have gathered from across the vastness of the Dharma Realm to join in the recitation, creating a spiritual assembly of immeasurable scale.

The diversity of this assembly is truly profound, reflecting the infinite reach of the Buddha's . Some beings hold the sutra in their hands, reciting with deep, unwavering focus. Others, unable to read the text, offer their scriptures to those who can, while they listen intently to the voice of Practitioner Su as it resonates from the temple. Many beings are kneeling, sitting, or standing in profound reverence. The elderly, whose legs are weak, sit quietly to recite, their hearts filled with devotion. Some children, finding it difficult to sit still, are gently guided by the adults and the Dharma protectors to remain respectful, as recitation is a sacred act that requires absolute sincerity and must not be interrupted by idle movement or play, which would be a sign of great disrespect.

The Universal Reach of the Buddha-Light

Because the temple grounds are so vast and the number of beings so great, one can witness every imaginable situation within this spiritual gathering. Spirits of animals—including cows, horses, kangaroos, ants, frogs, snakes, and birds—stand or crouch in quiet, respectful silence. Although they cannot produce human speech, their presence is a testament to the power of the Dharma. As they listen, their spirits become clear and bright. Even the foxes, though silent, can be seen moving their mouths in rhythm with the sutra, their hearts fully aligned with the sacred text. The congregation is not limited to the earthly realm; beings from various levels of the heavenly realms participate in the recitation, and sages from the Four Sacred Realms join the practice, lending their immense spiritual support to the assembly.

Because the temple space is infinite, those who arrive after the recitation has begun simply take their place in the back, extending the congregation beyond what the eye could ever measure. Although the physical eye sees only the Little White House, the spiritual space is free from such boundaries. The Dharma protectors and the beings present can clearly see whether the disciples are drowsy or focused. Because Practitioner Su emphasises the importance of reciting one sutra daily to nourish one's lotus, many beings are diligent in their practice. Even when the disciples appear weary, Practitioner Su remains present, watching over everyone with unwavering care and compassion.

The Beacon of Golden Light

The voice of Practitioner Su, broadcast through the sound system, reaches deep into the vastness of the Dharma Realm. Many beings who were previously lost in the darkness of their own confusion are awakened by the sound of his recitation. This sound travels to the very places where his performs the work of . Those who have a karmic affinity with the temple can hear his voice, whether they hold a scripture in their hands or simply listen with their hearts. The Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre serves as a vital spiritual anchor for these beings. For many, the temple is their only source of hope and strength. This is especially evident during the days surrounding the , when the space is filled to capacity with beings seeking the light.

Within this space, one can observe the different qualities of these spirits through the light they emit: the golden light of the Buddha, Bodhisattvas, and the holy assembly; the yellow light of beings from the heavenly realms; the white light of beings from the human realm; the grey light of beings from the ghost realm; and the deep black of beings from the demon realms. In the presence of the temple's golden light, the individual light of these spirits is often covered up, replaced by the warmth and energy of Namo Amituofo and the Buddhas. This is the power of the Buddha's , a rare and essential source of energy for the spiritual realms. This is why they regard this place as a sacred land.

The Profound Deliverance of Water Spirits

Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre is a rare beacon of golden light on Earth, a provider of energy that is easily found by those in the vastness of the Dharma Realm. This is why spirits are drawn here to seek light or request Chao Du. While humans may see only a building, animals such as snakes and frogs are drawn to the temple because the spirits within them can perceive the golden light. It is these spirits, residing within the bodies of the animals, that are truly seeking deliverance. The recent days have marked a significant turning point regarding the beings within of Practitioner Su. The release of water molecules and marine spirits has become increasingly evident. Many of these beings have been trapped for centuries, millennia, or even tens of thousands of years, bound to the fate of the ocean. Through the Dharma Body Chao Du of Practitioner Su, they are brought into his body, where they rest quietly before being liberated. When Practitioner Su strikes the large bell, the number of beings receiving deliverance is immeasurable and boundless. It is truly inconceivable that the spirit of a single water molecule or a tiny marine creature can be transformed into a Buddha.

The Boundless Compassion of Practitioner Su

The process of this deliverance is physically demanding. Practitioner Su has endured immense suffering, including severe inflammation and discomfort, as he bears the weight of these countless beings. If not for the presence of Practitioner Su in this world, these spirits would still be trapped in the depths of the ocean. To encounter Practitioner Su is the greatest fortune for all beings. The pain he endures for the sake of others is beyond what an ordinary person could ever bear. As Skanda , I am deeply moved by this compassion.

The fourfold assembly of disciples is constantly under the protection of the Buddha's light and the Buddha's blessings. This is a rare opportunity that is not easily attained. In the entire universe, there is only this one temple where Namo Amituofo truly abides. You must cherish your time here, practise diligently, and strive to realise your true self. Do not let this precious, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity pass you by.

Namo Amituofo.

Recorded by the Buddha's disciple, Venerable HaiZe.

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About the Author

Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre

Contributed to Pure Land Buddhism knowledge library