The Patriarchal Lineage of the Pure Land Teaching - Master Shandao
善導大師
Master Shandao’s Commentary on the Contemplation Sutra has the honor of being considered the “all-time definitive commentary” by all of the great masters. It is like the golden rule.
There are two principles that serve as the “eyes”, and another two that serve as the “hearts” of the book. Though two, they are one in principle. Knowing the principle, we can thoroughly understand the objective of the Commentary on the Contemplation Sutra.
The first principle is to believe and accept the deliverance Amitabha offers us. The second principle is the exclusive recitation of Amitabha’s Name. Both of these are based on the 18th - Fundamental Vow. It means we fully accept and rely upon Amitabha’s deliverance, so that our lives and Amitabha’s form one entity.
《觀經四帖疏》古今大德皆尊稱為「楷定疏」或「證定疏」,奉為金科玉律,崇敬如經。
此書眼目有二處,心要亦有二處;雖有二處,共明一理,知此一理,則《觀經四帖疏》之宗旨,瞭如指掌。
此一理即是信彌陀本願之救度,稱彌陀本願之名號;亦即全部生命頂戴彌陀救度,生命與彌陀成為一體。
Namo Amituofo!
