The Wisdom of Venerable Mancheng: Lessons from the Amitabha Village

The Inconceivable Connection

Namo Amituofo. I am Venerable Mancheng. That I am able to send this message from the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss to this world today is truly an inconceivable event. It is a testament to the boundless compassion of the Buddha that I, who once lost my way, can now reach out to you.

For many years, I served as the abbot of Shiji Monastery in Anhui. This is a temple with a history spanning over a thousand years. Since its founding in the Tang Dynasty, it has weathered countless storms, yet it remains standing in this human world today. Every brick, every tile, every blade of grass, and every tree within those grounds represents the tireless efforts of generations of venerable masters, Dharma protectors, and devoted followers who have worked to maintain and rebuild it. It is through their dedication that the temple retains its majestic appearance as an ancient monastery. The monastics, the resident community, and the lay practitioners who participate in the Dharma assemblies and Buddha-recitation there are all striving diligently, hoping to chant Namo Amituofo and attain rebirth in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss.

The Hidden Shadow of Arrogance

However, I must confess my shame. When I passed away, I did not reach the Western Pure Land. Although I spent my life chanting the name of the Buddha, managing the operations of the temple, and presiding over Dharma assemblies and Chao Du ceremonies, I failed to transform my deep-seated habits and personal ego. Perhaps it was a hidden, subtle arrogance that blinded me, preventing me from seeing the opportunities to change my ways. I understood the suffering of the six realms of rebirth very clearly, yet I remained deeply trapped within them.

Many years ago, I was fortunate enough to receive the compassion of Practitioner Su. Through the power of the Dharma, Practitioner Su took on the suffering of beings. A golden light was sent to my spirit, which at that time had fallen into the form of a dog. Through the invitation of the ancestral masters, I was brought forth and accompanied them into the Western Pure Land. This process is difficult to speak of, but I must face it. After all, I was once a monk who dedicated my efforts to helping beings and presiding over ceremonies. Yet, my meditative concentration and virtue were insufficient. I lacked the ability to truly save beings and guide them to the Western Pure Land. Furthermore, I remained attached to my status as an abbot, failing to see through and let go of my worldly identity. It was this attachment that led me to fall into the form of a dog, leaving me with no face to meet others.

A Solemn Warning to the Monastic Community

I speak so frankly because I hope that people in this world, especially the monastic community, will understand the gravity of their roles. You carry the heavy responsibility of helping beings leave suffering behind, escape the six realms of rebirth, and attain rebirth in the Western Pure Land. When Shakyamuni Buddha was in this world, he clearly admonished future generations that in this age of the Dharma’s decline, the capacity of beings is such that they can only achieve liberation through the Pure Land path.

Therefore, if you are a senior monastic or an abbot, and you fail to guide your disciples and followers to the Western Pure Land, you will face judgment and retribution in the hells after you pass away. This is a truth you must believe. You must be extremely cautious and diligent in your practice. Do not take this responsibility lightly.

The Gateway to the Western Pure Land

The Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre is where Namo Amituofo is residing here. With Practitioner Su, who has spent thirty years in Buddhist practice, realised the true nature, and attained the Dharma Body, the centre has the power to perform Chao Du for immeasurable and boundless beings, helping them attain rebirth in the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. I myself have received these benefits of the Dharma and was saved, allowing me to reach the Western Pure Land.

Now, the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre is establishing the Amitabha Village. This project is of vital importance and is a magnificent undertaking that will benefit everyone. It serves as a gateway—a front station—for those seeking rebirth in the Western Pure Land. Once you enter to study or reside in the Amitabha Village, you have the opportunity to be saved by Practitioner Su and attain rebirth in the Western Pure Land. This is a wish that so many have been unable to fulfil over accumulated lifetimes. Now, the Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre can help you complete this journey. What an extraordinary event that is incredibly difficult to find! I sincerely appeal to you all to participate in the construction and to reside there. You will surely receive the blessings of the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas and see your deepest wishes fulfilled. Namo Amituofo.