The Sacred Sound of the Qing Bell

Recorded and transcribed by Namo Amituofo’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe

The Sacred Instrument of the Temple

The Qing is a sacred instrument crafted from bronze, shaped much like a bowl. It is an essential component of the temple's environment, contributing to the dignity and solemnity of our bodhimanda. Typically, it is the Cantor who is responsible for wielding this instrument. It is used only at specific, designated times, such as during formal Dharma assemblies or when the monastics gather for communal practice.

Others must not mistake it for a mere toy or curiosity. One must exercise great care to avoid disturbing the ghost deities or disrupting the quiet retreats of fellow practitioners. When the Qing is struck, its vibrations resonate through the air, creating a sound that carries deep spiritual significance.

The Power of the Sound

The sound of the Qing possesses profound functions that aid in our collective practice:

• It serves to awaken the slumbering spirit.
• It uplifts the mind and spirit of those who hear it.
• It calms the restless and anxious heart.
• It possesses the power to subdue ghost deities.

The large Qing used here at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Goombungee, Queensland, Australia, is particularly sacred. It was a gift bestowed by Great Master Xuanzang upon Practitioner Su for his use in this work.

Transcending Space and Guiding Beings

The sound of this Qing transcends the limitations of physical space. It carries across the Dharma Realm, the heavenly realms, the hells, and the spiritual realms. It serves as a vital medium for our work:

• Announcing important matters to the spiritual realms and the Dharma Realm.
• Inviting spirits to resolve the conflict during the writing of memorial tablets.
• Striking the Qing to lead beings and demon crowds into the Western Land of Dharma Nature.
• Notifying the spirits to attend the Dharma assembly or the site of the Dharma talks to listen to the sutras and hear the Dharma.
• Receiving the deceased and leading them to the Western Land of Dharma Nature.

The Grace of Liberation

Once these beings enter the Western Land of Dharma Nature, they are able to listen to the sutras and hear the Dharma. They witness the proceedings of the Dharma assembly, which allows them to understand and repent for the evil deeds they committed in the past. This provides them with the precious opportunity to dissolve their karma, clear their obstacles, and undergo purification.

This is the immense grace bestowed upon all beings by Amitabha Buddha, by my humble self, and by Practitioner Su. Namo Amituofo.