The Virtue of Repentance

This is a record of an interview with the 143rd Venerable, Chande, who sought Chao Du at the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre in Australia. He now resides in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. This account reflects upon his long journey of spiritual cultivation and the profound meaning of his name. Recorded by the chief writer, Shi Fa, on February 26, 2026.

Venerable Chande speaks:

"Namo Amituofo. I am Chande, the 143rd Venerable. My name reflects the very essence of my practice: the virtue found through the deepest, most sincere repentance. It is a name that carries the weight of many lifetimes spent searching for the truth of the Dharma."

The Essence of Repentance

"Many ask what it means to truly repent. It is not merely acknowledging a mistake; it is the total shedding of the ego that allowed the mistake to occur in the first place. In my long journey through the cycles of samsara, I found that the heavy burden of past actions can only be lifted when one stands before the light of Namo Amituofo with a completely open and honest heart. Think about it—how can one be filled with the light of the Buddha if the vessel is still cluttered with the debris of past attachments?"

A Journey of Virtue

"Cultivating virtue is not about accumulating merits like coins in a purse. It is about refining the soul until it reflects the purity of the Western Pure Land. My journey, spanning many lifetimes, has finally led me to this moment of peace. The chapters of my history, which I have reflected upon during this time, represent the turning point where I finally understood the Law of Cause and Effect. It was a long road, but every step was necessary to reach this clarity.

I am now at peace, residing in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. I offer this testimony as a guide for all who seek the path of deliverance. May all beings realise their true nature and find their way home. Namo Amituofo."