The True Essence of Learning the Dharma

Among the 84,000 Dharma gates, what was the reason that led you to choose the Buddha’s teachings? Furthermore, how much do you truly understand about the Dharma? I, Zhao Puchu, wish to share this truth with all of you: before I was guided to the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, I did not understand the Dharma at all. I have no doubt about this; it is the absolute truth.

The Illusion of Scholarly Knowledge

Within the vast collection of Buddhist scriptures, I was well-versed in the teachings of both the Great and Small Vehicles. I could recite long, complex Buddhist terminologies with ease. However, the tragedy of my life was that I did not understand the ultimate purpose of learning the Buddha’s teachings. Everything I knew and everything I had studied was merely the kind of academic Buddhist knowledge that people in this world seek for intellectual satisfaction. When I reached the end of my life, I had no way to attain ultimate liberation, and I did not achieve rebirth in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss.

The Tragedy of Knowing Without Understanding

You, who are filled with the vast knowledge of the sutras, are you satisfied with your achievements in learning the Buddha’s teachings? If you have the certainty of rebirth in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, then your score is approaching perfection, and your life’s curriculum is nearing completion. However, if you are still confused and lost regarding the purpose of life, if you do not understand the vital importance of rebirth, or if you are unable to be reborn in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss at the time of your passing, then your score is likely not even a passing grade.

The Ultimate Examination of Life

In this ultimate examination of life, the technical terms you have memorised will not help you. The questions on this exam cannot be answered by the impressive-sounding Buddhist terminology that you have collected. This is a fair and impartial evaluation. If you study the Buddha’s teachings but do not understand the necessity of rebirth in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, you have not even truly entered the Buddha’s gate. You must start over and rebuild your practice properly.

Rebuilding Your Path to the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss

I encourage you to come to the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre. Re-enrol in the programme of study, earn the credits required for rebirth in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss, and complete your journey to the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss successfully. This is the only way to ensure that your life’s work is fulfilled and that you leave suffering behind to find true happiness.

Written by Zhao Puchu

Recorded by the Buddha’s disciple, Shi Fajing