The Vision of the Western Three Saints
An Interview with the Late Venerable Master Chan Yun
Recorded on May 7, 2018
This is a record of an interview with the late Venerable Master Chan Yun, who now resides in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. This account reflects upon his artistic inspiration and the spiritual significance of the portrait of the Western Three Saints he created during his lifetime. Recorded by the chief writer, Shi Faxi, on May 7, 2018.
Venerable Master Chan Yun speaks:
"Namo Amituofo. Regarding the questions that have been raised, these are topics from when I was still in the world. This is not the first time I have encountered such inquiries. Some people cherish this portrait of the Western Three Saints with great reverence, while others may not fully appreciate it. Regarding these differing opinions, I have never paid them any mind. I have only ever concerned myself with looking at my own shortcomings rather than focusing on the faults of others.
The Vision of the Western Three Saints
This portrait of the Western Three Saints was born from my many years of dedicated practice. One day, while I was immersed in meditative concentration and chanting the Buddha’s name, I experienced a profound connection, and the Western Three Saints appeared before me. I saw the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss bathed in a brilliant, radiant golden light. It was a scene of such immense dignity and beauty. What appeared before my eyes was exactly the image you see in this portrait. Perhaps my skills in painting were not yet fully refined, and I could not entirely capture the sublime dignity of the Western Three Saints as I witnessed them. However, after seeing that vision, it remained etched in my heart, and I could not forget it for a long time.
As I had some small experience in painting, only one thought occupied my mind: I wished to convey the message of the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss to the people of this world. I wanted them to know that when the time comes for them to be reborn in the Western Land, it is precisely this Namo Amituofo, along with Avalokiteshvara and Mahasthamaprapta Bodhisattvas, who will come to lead them. The Western Land of Ultimate Bliss is actually very close; it is accessible to anyone who possesses a heart of sincere, unwavering faith.
A Message of Faith for the World
One must possess absolute confidence in rebirth. I, Chan Yun, have now arrived in the Western Land, and it is exactly as I saw it in that vision so long ago. Here, I am filled with every single day. At every moment, I continue to make prostrations and chant the Buddha’s name. Namo Amituofo is constantly emitting light and the sound of the Dharma flows throughout this realm. If people in the world are fortunate enough to have faith, they should truly believe that the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss exists. It is a new world where one can transcend the cycle of death. The desire to be reborn in the Western Land is a vital conviction.
To all the followers and disciples I had while in the world, and to all those who have heard my name, please know that this portrait is truly the Buddha of the West. I am now following this Buddha in the Western Land, continuing my diligent practice. I have never been a man of many words. If you have any further questions you wish to ask me, you may reach out at any time. The Western Land is manifest right before your eyes; the reality of the Buddha’s teachings is truly this profound and great Truth.
Namo Amituofo. Please, everyone, practise diligently. This human body is difficult to obtain, and this is a rare opportunity to see the Buddha."
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About the Author
Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre
Contributed to Pure Land Buddhism knowledge library