December 31, 2023

Dec 31, 2023

Voice of Master Jingzong - Q and A about the Purpose of Life

淨宗之聲 - 人生目的問答

Q13: A high school student always recites the Buddha’s name. Should he also strive to study at school?

Answer:

It seems that this student is serious about practicing Buddhism. This is exceedingly rare and deserving of praise. It is a psychological process for most beginners in Buddhism. However, it is better for me to talk about the answer first , so that you can have a clear and definite direction.

In the human world, an Amitabha-reciter “deals with all worldly matters with the mind of transcendence”. We have decided to be born in the Land of Bliss through Amitabha-recitation. Thus, we know the path for returning home. Because of this we deal with all worldly matters with the transcendent mind - assured emancipation through the Buddha’s deliverance.

For example, students take examinations and seek a way to make a living, etc. These are short-term solutions, without a lasting sense of joy and security, because the most important issue in life has not been resolved. However, we can also study to learn to make a living; but, no matter how much money we earn we shouldn’t become too attached to it. We know that we will eventually be born in the Land of Bliss, through practicing Master Shandao’s Pristine Pure Land Path. We try our best to do good in our daily lives, knowing that the gains and losses are impermanent. Because of this understanding, we have a more relaxed temperament and optimistic attitude, without any fear of loss.

(to be continued tomorrow)

問(13)高中生念佛了,還要努力拚搏學習嗎?

淨宗之聲:

看來這位高中生學佛還是很認真的,這一點非常難得,值得讚歎。但是現在還是處在初機階段,不少人學佛都會有這樣的一個心理過程。如同從陰天轉晴天,總是陰陰晴晴。

這裡可以先把答案說出來,供你參考,然後你知道答案之後,就有一個明確的方向。一個念佛人在世間,也就是一般講的“以出世心做入世事”。

我們念佛,知道我們決定往生西方極樂世界,我們有退路;人生有退路,心中有靠山,在這種背景下,我們還在世間生活,所以是以一種蒙佛救度必定解脫,這種超然的心來做世間的事業。

比如世間人讀書,他要考試,求功名,為了將來從事某種職業,掙一份工資,他的目標很短,內心也不安,缺乏安全感,因為人生的根本問題沒有解決。

我們同樣也讀書,我們知道人生的未來決定往生西方極樂世界,那麼掙錢多一點、少一點,對我們來講都不會那麼患得患失,因為我們已經獲得人生根本的利益。隨著我們過去的福報,今生的努力,我們走到哪就算哪。

所以,反而有一種輕鬆閒適的心情、隨緣樂觀的態度,不是那麼患得患失。在這種心境下,反而我們的潛能會得到最大限度的發揮。

Namo Amituofo!

December 30, 2023

Dec 30, 2023

The Patriarchal Lineage of the Pure Land Teaching - Master Shandao

善導大師

The Land of Bliss is a realm of unconditioned Nirvana. It’s hard to be born there by practicing assorted virtues according to circumstances.

The Tathagata selects the key method – he teaches us to recite Amitabha’s name with two-fold exclusivity.

This verse covers the aim, method, teaching, theory, practice and benefits of our school. It summarizes the Three Pure Land Sutras and the one Shastra. If we can memorize and recite it, it enables us to arouse faith, enhance our wisdom, increase our Dharma joy, and receive Dharma benefits.

極樂無為涅槃界,隨緣雜善恐難生;

故使如來選要法,教念彌陀專復專。

這一首偈涵蓋我們這個法門的目標、方法,教、理、行、果,與淨土三經一論的扼要。

如果能夠將這首偈子背下來的話,不但可以生信心、長智慧,也能夠增法喜、受法益。

Namo Amituofo!

December 29, 2023

Dec 29, 2023

Master Huijing’s Short Dharma Teaching about the Classification of Teachings – the Two Practices (Primary and Miscellaneous)

正雜二行判

“Assured Karma” and “Supportive Karma” also bear the meanings of king and officer, master and servant. Name-recitation is the master, the others, such as prostration are the servants. It is like when a dragon moves, clouds follow; or, when a king arrives , his officers follow and serve him.

However, if people believe that single-minded exclusive recitation is not sufficient for birth in the Pure Land, and “supportive karma” needs to be done in addition; the mind of “self-power” is involved, and these are considered “miscellaneous practices”.

This is because these practitioners do not thoroughly understand that, within assured and supportive karma, there is actually the relationship of real and expedient. If a practitioner believes their practice is equal, it will be said, “Though there are no miscellaneous practices in exclusive cultivation, there are miscellaneous cultivations within the cultivation of the primary practices.”

「正助」亦有君臣、主伴之義,以稱名為主位,禮誦等隨順之,因而分為正助,恰如龍動雲隨、君來臣侍的風貌。

然倘若以為一心專念不足以往生,須助業補足之,因而五種正行兼修,以求往生,這很明顯地帶有自力,古德謂之「助正兼行之雜修」,亦謂之「助正間雜之雜心」。

這是由於未通達助正有方便與真實的關係而將兩者並重的兼修之,故說「雖無修雜行的專修,卻有修正行的雜修」。

Namo Amituofo!

December 28, 2023

Dec 28, 2023

Common Knowledge in Pure Land Teaching

淨土小常識

110 The Practice of Amitabha’s Fundamental Vow

In his great Fundamental Vow, Amitabha Buddha only selects the practice of name-recitation. Amitabha-recitation is the splendid, transcendent, other-powered practice of the Easy Path established in Amitabha’s Fundamental Vow. If it did not contain these attributes that enable us to attain rebirth, it could not be called the Easy Path.

Amitabha Buddha set forth in his fundamental vow - “If you exclusively recite my Name and cannot be born in my Pure Land, I will not become a Buddha.” However, since Amitabha is now a Buddha, his vow has been fulfilled. Therefore, when we recite Amitabha’s Name, it complies with the law of cause and effect, and matches the Buddha’s aspiration; so, we are naturally born in Amitabha’s Pure Land.

110 彌陀本願之行

阿彌陀佛在其根本大願第十八願裡,只選擇「稱名念佛」一行作為本願,所以,「念佛」是彌陀本願之行。念佛之所以殊勝、超越,之所以叫做他力,之所以叫做易行道,根本的原因就在於它是彌陀的本願;如果不是彌陀本願,就沒有資格稱為易行道,也沒有資格稱為殊勝超越,更沒有資格叫做他力,那麼我們凡夫就不能往生了。

所以,阿彌陀佛本來發了這樣的願:「你念我的名號,若不能往生,我不成佛!」他現在已經成佛,願力兌現了,那我們念佛,自然就因果相符,與佛的願心相應,自然就往生了。

Namo Amituofo!

December 27, 2023

Dec 27, 2023

A Verse sharing Compassionate Advice and Cautions - quoted from ‘In Praise of Pratyutpanna’ by Master Shandao

善導大師《般舟讚》慈悲勸誡

If we hear this rare teaching filled with wonderful benefits, we must aspire to attain it, even if it means sacrificing our lives.

If we can exclusively practice it with no reservations, we will be instantly born in the Land of Bliss when our life ends.

若聞此法稀奇益,不顧身命要求得;

若能專行不惜命,命斷須臾生安樂。

Namo Amituofo!

December 26, 2023

Dec 26, 2023

Master Huijing’s Short Dharma Teaching about Impermanence

慧淨法師之無常法語

Don’t say let me study the Way when I am old.

Most solitary tombs were built for young people.

莫謂老來方學道,孤墳多是少年人。

Namo Amituofo!

December 25, 2023

Dec 25, 2023

Voice of Master Jingzong - Q and A about the Purpose of Life

淨宗之聲 - 人生目的問答

(continuation of the answer to Q12 - 3/3)

Can we escape the bondage of reincarnation in this life? Wouldn’t we need perfect wisdom and compassion similar to Guanyin Bodhisattva? How can we ignorant ordinary beings accomplish this?

Is it possible by relying only on ourselves in daily life? No, it is almost impossible!

For that reason, isn’t it wonderful to have the Pure Land teaching and the recitation of Namo Amituofo? Without greatly disrupting our daily lives, we only need to aspire to be reborn in the Pure Land, and exclusively recite Amitabha’s Name as often as we can. In so doing, we are protected by Amitabha’s light, and received by the Buddha and bodhisattvas within a lotus flower when we are near our time of death. Once reborn in Amitabha’s Pure Land we will transcend reincarnation within the Three Domains forever and realize unsurpassed Nirvana.

Buddhism does not just point out that life contains suffering and the matter of birth-and-death is of great importance. It provides countless teachings to deal with these issues. Among them, Amitabha-recitation is the easiest, simplest, and the most splendid.

This teaching doesn't just resolve our own problems, it can also resolve those of our parents, spouses, children, siblings and friends. Just share this wonderful teaching with them. The ultimate blessings in life and the ultimate truth of the universe are within the six-character Name - Namo Amituofo!

如果在這一生當中,能夠突破生死輪迴的繫縛,就像觀世音菩薩一樣,圓通自在,這人生大事不就完成了嗎?那麼如何解決這件大事呢?

靠我們自己這一生,還要在這個世間吃喝拉撒,幾乎不可能解決。好在有淨土法門,專念南無阿彌陀佛,既不影響在這個世間所謂的大事,你仍然去辦,你只要真心願生淨土,隨忙隨閒、早早晚晚念這句佛號,那麼現生得彌陀光明護佑,臨終得佛菩薩持蓮花來迎,一旦到淨土,永遠超越三界輪迴,證悟無上涅槃。

佛教不光指出人生是苦、生死事大,方法也有,有八萬四千法門,但在這當中最簡易、最殊勝的,就是念佛法門。

這個法門不光能解決我們自身的生死大事,跟我們有緣的父母、夫妻、父子、兄弟、朋友,只要告訴他們,這麼簡便、這麼容易的法門,大家都可以解決生死大事,這是多麼好的一個法門。

人生究竟的幸福、宇宙究竟的真理,就在“南無阿彌陀佛”這六個字裡。

Namo Amituofo!

December 24, 2023

Dec 24, 2023

Voice of Master Jingzong - Q and A about the Purpose of Life

淨宗之聲 - 人生目的問答

(continuation of the answer to Q12 - 2/3)

The “great matter of birth-and-death” is a special teaching in Buddhism and a crucial subject for all sentient beings to deeply consider. All beings exist within the cycle of birth-and-death. It is the foundation from which all worldly joy and blessings unfold.

The Buddha taught that “Life contains suffering and all phenomena are impermanent”. These teachings are the foundation for all other Buddhist learning. We must solidly lay this foundation , otherwise all we build upon it will collapse. If we understand the nature of life and its root meaning , we have grasped an unwavering truth.

The great matter of birth-and-death is to escape the endless cycle of reincarnation. This is the fundamental purpose for being a human in Samsara. It is because we can resolve this great matter only in the human realm . Human brains possess the capacity to think. We exist in an ever changing state between suffering and happiness. If one is too happy, one will slacken, like heavenly beings who will not practice Buddhist teachings. If one suffers too much, one has no

energy to think, and can become like animals, who primarily exist on their instincts. If one is a hungry ghost, one will be endlessly busy finding food. Hell beings suffer unceasingly; so, they have no capacity to practice.

As you see, it is difficult to practice in the Three Wretched Realms and the heavenly realm. The human brain has many advantages in terms of learning and practicing Buddhist teachings such as: a strong memory, determination, and creativity. A human body is a treasured vehicle to cultivate the Way in the human realm.

(to be continued tomorrow)

所以“生死事大”,這是佛門特別的命題,也是給一切眾生提出的人生命題,就是不管什麼大事,任何事總是在生死的循環圈裡,這是根基。任何的繁榮,任何世間的福樂,總是以這個為根基來開展。如果這個根基不牢,佛法說“人生是苦,諸行無常”,像樓房建在沙灘上;建樓房很重要,如果根基沒有打好,不就倒掉、塌掉了嗎?再怎樣,這個世間都是不牢靠的。如果生命的本質、生命的根本意義掌握了,不可動搖的真理掌握了,那當然這是最根本的大事。

“生死大事”是說要解決無窮無盡的生死輪迴這樣一個大苦惱的事情,這才是投胎為人的根本目的。因為在人道,你才有可能解決這個問題,人比較聰明,能聞法,苦樂參半。如果太享樂,就會放逸,就像天人太放逸,他不會去修行佛法,很少。如果太苦惱,就沒有精力,沒有心思,比如做豬或其他動物,就很愚痴;做了餓鬼就整天找吃的,在地獄裡分分秒秒受苦,哪有時間修行啊?

所以,在三惡道、天道都難以修行。而人道,有它的優點和長處,記憶力、意志力、造作力都非常強,另外,苦樂相間。所以,在人間,人身是最重要的修道寶器。

Namo Amituofo!

December 23, 2023

Dec 23, 2023

Voice of Master Jingzong - Q and A about the Purpose of Life

淨宗之聲 - 人生目的問答

Q12: What is meant by the “great matter of birth-and-death” in Buddhism? How does one resolve it?

Answer:

There are so many things happening in the world. Being unwise, we often make trivial matters into big ones. The Infinite Life Sutra says, “People of the world lack meaningful virtue and engage in strife over matters which are unimportant. In the midst of abject wickedness and extreme afflictions they painstakingly toil for their living.”

Generally, people think raising children, studying, working, career achievement, and family glory are the most important matters in our lives. Some entrepreneurs, politicians, diplomats, and scientists may think environmental pollution is a great matter because the Earth may be destroyed. Such matters as space travel, immigration, or even AI are also considered of great importance too.

However, nothing is greater than life - the reality of life, the nature of life and the perfection of life. So, if the riddle of life cannot be resolved, what we do is like a dream or an illusion. What is the meaning of making a great fortune or losing it all in a dream?

(to be continued tomorrow)

問(12) 什麼是“生死大事”?如何解決?

:佛教裡經常說生死是大事,究竟什麼叫“生死大事”?應該如何解決?

淨宗之聲:

人世間每天都有許多事要發生,由於我們智慧淺短,往往就把鷄毛蒜皮的小事當作大事。

《無量壽經》就說“世人薄俗,共諍不急之事。于此劇惡極苦之中,勤身營務,以自給濟”。

都以為這些是人生大事,比如生兒育女、考學、工作、事業成就、光宗耀祖,這是指一般老百姓。一些大企業家、政治家、外交家、科學家,認為地球環境污染,這是大事;地球將來可能會毀滅,現在我們發展太空,搞移民計劃,這是大事;現在人工智能發展,這是大事。

但是,所有的大事都不如生命本身更重要,諸如生命的真相、生命的本質、生命的圓滿。所以,生死的謎題如果不解開,怎麼做都是如夢如幻。在夢裡,即使發了財、虧了本,一醒,都沒有意思。

Namo Amituofo!

December 22, 2023

Dec 22, 2023

The Patriarchal Lineage of the Pure Land Teaching - Master Shandao

善導大師

Master Shandao says in his Commentary on the Contemplation Sutra , the objectives of this sutra are the Samadhi of Contemplating the Buddha and the Samadhi of Recollecting the Buddha. These are known as “the dual objectives of contemplation and recollection”.

However, this process must be skillfully guided, because it is impossible to have two objectives within one Sutra. So, the relationship of “establishment” and “abandonment” between the Samadhi of Contemplating the Buddha and the Samadhi of Recollecting the Buddha is to abandon the former in order to establish the latter.

People may misunderstand the concept of “establishment” and “abandonment” because it is ear-piercing to hear the word “abandonment”. Therefore, one should have the correct understanding of the concept of “abandonment”.

For example, meditative virtues refer to calming one’s anxiety by quieting one’s mind, which we cannot fully do. Non-meditative virtues refer to eliminating our harmful activities and nurturing goodness in our lives. This especially refers to worldly blessings, which all practitioners in the Pure Land or Sacred Paths, and even non-Buddhists should do, because it is fundamental for all humans. No one should abandon it. So, “abandonment” as mentioned here, only refers to rebirth.

That is to say, as far as rebirth is concerned, we don’t need these worldly virtues. This is the meaning of “abandonment”. However, please don’t say that, since we only need to recite Amitabha’s Name for rebirth in the Land of Bliss, we can discard the practice of all virtues, or even kill, and practice the Ten Evil Deeds. Absolutely not! If a practitioner is not a Buddhist, how can he be a Pure Land practitioner?

善導大師在《觀經疏》〈玄義分〉說:今此《觀經》,即以觀佛三昧為宗,亦以念佛三昧為宗。

這就是「念觀兩宗」。但這個只是引導的過程,不可能一經有兩宗,而是一種施設的善巧方便,所以最後顯明「念觀廢立」。因此「念佛三昧」跟「觀佛三昧」的廢立關係,就是廢──觀佛三昧,立──念佛三昧。

對於「廢」、「立」往往有人會誤解,這個「廢」字聽起來,似乎比較刺耳,但是在這裡,我們對「廢」要有正確的認識與把握。

譬如說「定觀」,也就是「定善」──息慮凝心,我們根本做不到,而「散善」──廢惡修善,尤其是「世福」,不管是學淨土或學聖道,乃至一般沒有學佛的人都應該奉行的,因為那是做人的根本,怎麼可以廢棄呢?所以,這裡的「廢」是就「往生」上來講的,是說就往生上來講,不需要那些功能,這個叫做「廢」。

因此,並不是說要往生極樂世界只要念佛就好,除此之外,定善、散善都要捨掉,都可以不用做,甚至可以殺生、可以行十惡,絕對不是那樣。如果是那樣,他就連佛教徒都稱不上了,怎麼會是淨土行人呢?

Namo Amituofo!

December 21, 2023

Dec 21, 2023

Short Dharma Teaching about Classification of Teachings – the Two Practices (Primary and Miscellaneous)

正雜二行判

(continued)

The Five Primary Practices consist of: exclusive recitation of Amitabha’s Name, sutra-recitation, prostration, praising, and making offerings. If you are illiterate or blind, do not possess the scriptures, or any other inconveniences, you cannot do all of these. Only name-recitation is easy and can be done by anyone. You can recite mentally, quietly, or you can shout if you are feeling emotional. So, only Amitabha-recitation is suitable for all, under any circumstances, and the others are not.

因為五種正行還有讀誦、觀想、禮拜跟讚歎供養,如果不認識字,或是眼睛瞎了,或是沒有經本,或是其他的不方便,就不能誦經了;觀想、禮拜和讚歎供養也是一樣。唯有念佛,張開嘴巴能念,心中默默的也能念,感情一來,要大聲的呼喊,也可以。所以,念佛是適應萬機,其他都不一定。

Namo Amituofo!

December 20, 2023

Dec 20, 2023

Master Huijing’s Short Dharma Teaching about the Classification of Teachings – the Two Practices (Primary and Miscellaneous)

正雜二行判

“The establishment of faith in regard to practice” means “exclusive recitation of the Buddha’s Name”.

This “practice”(exclusive recitation of Amitabha’s Name) is the karma of assurance. “Assured” and “not-assured” are relative terms. If “exclusive recitation of Amitabha Buddha’s Name” is the karma of assurance, then all other practices are forms of supportive karma. These are not fully assured practices, though they are more valuable than those that are “not assured”.

Why do I say this? If we exclusively recite Namo Amitabha Buddha, we are assured of rebirth, due to the embrace of Amitabha’s light in this lifetime. If the recitations are mixed with the other four supportive karmas, we may mistakenly believe that we must combine the effects of all five Primary Practices in order to attain assured rebirth. This belief needlessly increases the degree of difficulty.

(to be continued tomorrow)

「就行立信」意在「專稱佛名」。

「就行」之「行」即是導歸於「正定業」的專稱佛名,「定」跟「不定」是相對待的,專稱佛名既然是正定業,若不是歸於正定業而是其他助業,就有不定的可能;不過,當然「定」的成份是比較多的。

怎麼講?如果專念「南無阿彌陀佛」這句名號,那是必定往生的,因為現生就已經被彌陀佛光明攝取,但若摻雜其他四種正行,在心念當中以為必須有五種正行的功行加起來才可以往生,不然就不能往生,這樣會增加困難性。

Namo Amituofo!

December 19, 2023

Dec 19, 2023

Common Knowledge in Pure Land Teaching

淨土小常識

109 Even (continued)

There are multiple meanings of “even”:

1. It doesn’t matter if a dying person is a - man, woman, young, old, monastic, householder, good, evil, in the present life, near the end-of-life, in the Bardo state, or even in the Three Wretched Realms.

2. Regardless of the time of death - any time of day or night

3. Regardless of the location of death - whether it is clean, dirty, a Buddhist hall, bedroom, or washroom. The location of one’s death is unpredictable; but, Amitabha’s light shines in the ten directions.

4. Regardless of the activity at the time of death - walking, standing, sitting, or lying down, during all work situations.

5. Regardless of one’s state of mind - wholesome, unwholesome, concentrated, distracted, pure, or contaminated. 6. Regardless of the number of recitations - many or few, all the way till the end-of-life. Recite whenever you wish. Recite without forsaking.

109 乃至

「乃至」含多義

一. 不論何人—— 男女、老幼、僧俗、善惡、平生、臨終、中陰身、三惡道。

二. 不論何時——二六時中。

三. 不論何處—— 佛堂、房間、浴廁,不論淨穢之地。光照十方,難擇死地。

四. 不論何事—— 士農工商、行住坐臥、一切諸緣。 事緣本無礙,若礙當遠之。

五. 不論心境—— 善心惡心、定心散心、清淨心、污穢心。

六. 不論何數—— 從多向少,從少向多,徹至臨終。 出口就念,想到就念,念念不捨。

Namo Amituofo!

December 18, 2023

Dec 18, 2023

Common Knowledge in Pure Land Teaching

淨土小常識

109 Even

The word “even”, as mentioned in Amitabha’s 18th Vow, refers to the aspiration to be reborn in Amitabha’s Pure Land for one’s entire life, and for one thought if aspiring at the point of death.

Master Shandao says in his Commentary on the Contemplation Sutra:

It refers to “One’s entire lifetime or just one day, one hour, one thought, etc”, when one is near death.

The general meaning is: once a person aspires to rebirth, he should consistently vow to be reborn in the Pure Land without retrogression, until the end-of-life.

To put it concisely, it means covering one lifetime above( the maximum) and just one thought below(the minimum).

The general meaning is: Once I aspire to be reborn in the Land of Bliss, and aspire to exclusively recite Amitabha’s Name, I will never change my mind during my entire life, until I am reborn in the Land of Bliss at the end.

(to be continued tomorrow)

109 乃至

「乃至」者:上包一形,下包一念。

善導大師《觀經疏》言:

上盡一形,下至一日、一時、一念等。(從多向少)

或從一念十念,至一時、一日、一形。(從少向多)

大意者:一發心以後,誓畢此生,無有退轉,唯以淨土為期。

扼要來說,就是「上包一形,下包一念」。「一形」就是一輩子,「一念」就是臨終

一念。亦即「平生之機,上盡一形;臨終之機,下至一念」。

大意就是:現在發願要往生極樂世界、發願專念彌陀名號之後,盡這一輩子,

都不改變、不退轉,一直到往生極樂淨土為止。所以說「大意者:一發心以後,

誓畢此生,無有退轉,唯以淨土為期」。

Namo Amituofo!

December 17, 2023

Dec 17, 2023

A Verse sharing Compassionate Advice and Cautions - quoted from ‘In Praise of

Pratyutpanna’ by Master Shandao

善導大師《般舟讚》慈悲勸誡

If you are really a disciple of the Buddha, you should act on what the Buddha

taught, and aspire to be reborn in the Land of Peace and Joy.

You shouldn’t casually believe what others say, or follow other teachings to cure

illnesses.

若是釋迦真弟子,誓行佛語生安樂;

不得悠悠信他語,隨緣治病各依法。

Namo Amituofo!

December 16, 2023

Dec 16, 2023

Master Huijing’s Short Dharma Teaching about Impermanence

慧淨法師之無常法語

Don’t be sad when you suffer.

Don’t be happy when you feel well.

Life is still a dream until we awaken.

苦莫悲,喜莫笑,總是浮生夢未覺。

Namo Amituofo!

December 15, 2023

Dec 15, 2023

Voice of Master Jingzong - Q and A about the Purpose of Life

淨宗之聲 - 人生目的問答

Question about the meaning, the aim, and the pursuits in the lives of Buddhas

Answer (continuation to Q11 - 5/5):

A Buddha is free from any obstructions. His existence is eternal and omnipresent.

◎ Independent and free from any obstructions - his existence does not depend on any

other factors or conditions

◎ Eternal existence - permanent existence, free of the boundaries of time

◎ Omnipresent - existing everywhere

A Buddha is united with the original source underlying all states of existence. Those who are not Buddhas cannot fully understand the meaning of his existence. He restores the meaning of life to all living beings. The original state of existence is called “True Suchness”.

As a Buddha fully realizes all of these states, he coexists with all matter and phenomena. His consciousness is described as “ infinite kindness and compassion”. We seek the meaning of life because we are so far away from the original state of our existence, living far away from the homeland of Buddha Nature.

A Buddha is independent, free from any obstructions, has infinite life, and is omnipresent. He lives in suchness. There is no longer any reason for a Buddha to pursue the meaning of existence , as a Buddha himself is the meaning.

It is just like a person who leaves home and then wishes to return home. However, if he is already at home, he will not ask to go home. As home can render warmth to those who have wandered in cold areas away from home, home is seen as synonymous with warmth.

Unlike ordinary beings, a Buddha always dwells in his Buddha Nature, in the realm of permanence, joy, true self, and purity.

佛是自在、永在、遍在。

◎ “自在”是不依他而存在;

◎ “永在”是三世一切劫、恆久地存在;

◎ 遍一切處地存在,他是一切存在意義的本源。

不能再問他存在的意義是什麼,他賦予一切生命、一切萬物存在的意義。但是,這也是一切萬物本來的狀態,所謂“真如”。

佛證悟這一切,所以跟一切萬物的存在同體,所謂“無緣大慈,同體大悲”。因為人遠離了這種存在的本來狀態,遠離了佛性家鄉,所以我們才要尋求存在的意義。佛本身就是自在、本在、永在、遍在,這種狀態是不動的。那當然就沒有追求存在意義這回事,他本身就是意義。

就好像離了家的人想要回家,但本來在家的人還說什麼要回家啊?沒有這回事。也是因為家給了外面流浪的人溫暖,賦予這個意義。佛本身就安住在佛性,安住在常樂我淨的境界當中,不像我們凡夫這樣。

Namo Amituofo!

December 14, 2023

Dec 14, 2023

Voice of Master Jingzong - Q and A about the Purpose of Life

淨宗之聲 - 人生目的問答

Question about the meaning, the aim and the pursuit of existence after becoming a Buddha

Answer (continuation to Q11 - 4/5):

The Nirvana Sutra says, “ A Buddha has four virtues - permanence, bliss, self and purity”

◎ “permanence” is truth, eternal existence, and transcends the concepts of time and space.

◎ “bliss” is the ultimate joy, the joy of Nirvana, the joy which is not relative to suffering.

◎ “self” means total freedom, not bound to any worldly concepts

◎ “purity” means: total clarity, uncontaminated, containing no ignorance, no doubts, no attachment to self, no discriminative thoughts. The incorrect notions we have concerning the self and these other concepts are not pure.

When we reach the above states, there is no longer any need to ask about aims or pursuits. All Buddhas arouse their compassionate minds, knowing that sentient beings possess Buddha Nature. It’s like burning wood. Both fire and wood have the fire nature. So, the wood will naturally burn when it is set on fire.

A Buddha is like the pristine fire of the Samadhi of Compassion. Sentient beings possess Buddha Nature; but, it is buried beneath our ignorance, negative karma, and afflictions.

Thus, a Buddha knows he can deliver sentient beings because he knows they already have the Buddha Nature.

It is just like fire naturally able to burn wood. A Buddha’s deliverance is also natural; so, it isn’t necessary to ask about their aims or pursuits. This is an analogy. Please let go of trying to understand a Buddha’s realm with our limited capacities. We need only exclusively recite Amitabha’s Name. Once we arrive in his Western Land of Bliss, we will fully understand.

《涅槃經》裡說,佛有四德:常、樂、我、淨。

◎ “常”是真理、永恆的存在,是超越時間概念的。

◎ “樂”是大樂、涅槃之樂,不是相對於苦樂而言的樂。

◎ “我”是“自在”之意。“我”就是一種本體、真實的存在,大自在、大解脫。

◎ “淨”是清淨,沒有任何的染污、不明了,沒有對萬法萬象不明、疑惑,也沒有我執、分別念。有我執,有分別念,有人,有我,有眾生,這就不淨了。

在這種境界,我們還是用語言說,到這個時候,還提什麼目標、追求?

諸佛緣起大悲心,也是因為眾生本來就有佛性。像火燒木頭,它並沒有什麼目標和追求,火本身就有火性,木頭裡面也有火性,它們火性相關,自自然然緣著這根木頭就燒著了。

佛就像純粹的三昧慈悲之火,眾生就像木頭,眾生有佛性,只是被邪知邪見、煩惱業障給覆蓋住了,但是佛性沒有喪失。

所以,佛度眾生是緣著佛性,這也可以講“無緣”,因為眾生本來就具足佛性,所以自自然然來度眾生。如同火燒木那樣自然,佛度眾生也是自自然然的,也沒有什麼目標之類的,火燒木有目標嗎?這都是打比喻。

總之,不要以凡夫的想法去測度佛的境界,我們還是老老實實念佛,到了西方極樂世界,一切自然明了,

Namo Amituofo!

December 13, 2023

Dec 13, 2023

Voice of Master Jingzong - Q and A about the Purpose of Life

淨宗之聲 - 人生目的問答

Question about the meaning, the aim and the pursuit of existence after becoming a Buddha

Answer (continuation to Q11 - 3/5):

Buddhist terminologies sometimes speak of the exploitation of Buddha Nature, and sometimes speak of awakening to become a Buddha. The process of awakening to become a Buddha involves the innate awakening, the initial awakening, and the ultimate awakening.

The original Buddha Nature is the innate awakening. Being deluded, then awakened, then understanding the original Buddha Nature is the initial awakening. Having the perfect and complete awakening is called the ultimate awakening.

Rebirth in the Pure Land is the same. It also describes returning to the original home of Buddha Nature; but, it is explained with respect to the environment. Relying on the karmic power of Amitabha Buddha’s great vows is far more appropriate and accessible for ignorant ordinary beings, than attempting the awakening of our Buddha Nature through our own cultivation. That is why it is called the “Easy Path”.

Such ideas as goals, pursuits, and meaning do not exist in Buddhas and bodhisattvas. In the Buddha’s Realm all Dharmas exist in stillness. So, the Diamond Sutra says, “All sentient beings have been delivered to extinction ; but actually, not a single sentient being is to be delivered’, and there is “no notion of self, no notion of people, no notion of sentient beings and no notion of life”.

In our consciousness we have all four notions. So we say, “Oh Buddhas, are you finished delivering sentient beings? What are you doing now? Is it boring?” Thinking such things is due to the afflictions of ordinary beings. Buddhas have cut off all afflictions; so, how can they feel bored? How can they pursue a goal? 

“Buddhas compassionately delivering sentient beings” is described with human language. This kind of Buddha’s deliverance involves no-action, is natural, with completely free will. Thus, the realms of Buddhas are perfect and complete.

(to be continued tomorrow)

在佛教專用術語中,或者說開發佛性,或者說覺悟成佛。覺悟成佛,就有本覺、始覺、究竟覺。

本來的佛性,這稱為“本覺”;迷惑了,開悟、瞭解本來的佛性,叫“始覺”;到最後的圓滿覺悟,稱為“究竟覺”。往生淨土也是一樣的,它是從對境來說明這件事,其實也是回歸本有佛性的家鄉。

但是,是依據諸佛,尤其是阿彌陀佛別願、大願業力的外緣作用,比我們自己覺悟佛性、修行圓滿方便太多,所以稱為“易行道”。

什麼“目標、追求、意義”,這些詞對佛菩薩來說不存在。佛的境界,一切萬法本來寂滅,有什麼目標追求?所以《金剛經》裡說“滅度一切眾生已,而無有一眾生實滅度者”“無我相,無人相,無眾生相,無壽者相”。

其實以我們的觀念,是有人相,有我相,有眾生相,有壽者相,才說“佛,你度眾生度完了吧,你還幹什麼?無聊了嗎?”這都是凡夫的煩惱,佛已經斷除一切煩惱,怎麼會覺得無聊呢?怎麼還會有一個目標要實現呢?只是就凡夫的語言來說,佛慈悲救度眾生。佛這種度眾生也是無作,任運自然,所以佛是圓滿的境界。

Namo Amituofo!

December 12, 2023

Dec 12, 2023

Voice of Master Jingzong - Q and A about the Purpose of Life

淨宗之聲 - 人生目的問答

Questions about the meaning, aims, and pursuits of those who are reborn in the Pure Land and become Buddhas.

Answer (continuation to Q11 - 2/5):

In its original state life is filled with delight, peace, and joy. Suffering arises due to our karma and ignorance. That is why we should strive to depart from suffering and pursue true happiness with every single thought. However, because we are not enlightened and are unable to see the original face of life, we depart from our original homeland (Buddha Nature). This leaves us confused and unable to see what our true problems are. We are like people who arrive in a city without knowing their way around.

Thus, we strive to escape from suffering and pursue happiness in this world; but, we all commit karmic offenses. Sadly, when we die, we exit from one world of suffering and

reincarnate in another. It is human instinct and the natural function of our Buddha Nature to try to escape from suffering and pursue happiness. Unfortunately, we are ordinary ignorant beings whose understanding and activities are incorrect. Seeing our predicament the Buddhas take pity on us.

The reason we lose our way is that we have lost touch with our Buddha Nature (our original state of being) - the homeland of permanence, happiness, and purity. So, it is of course, the meaning of life to return to that original state.

(to be continued tomorrow)

生命的本來就是歡樂、安樂和喜樂,是跟苦不相應的;苦是染污法、顛倒墮落法。所以,我們心心念念要離苦得樂,但是我們不能覺悟生命的本來面貌,我們離開了生命——佛性的本來家鄉,所以不知道問題出在哪裡。就像一個人到了一座城市,東西南北搞不清楚,我們人生都是這樣。所以,一方面在那裡追求離苦得樂,另一方面從苦入苦,造下更多的罪業。

但是,追求離苦得樂是對的,這是人的本能追求,也是佛性裡面自然的功能。但是我們的方向錯了,認識錯了,所以佛才憐憫我們。

人之所以失去價值、失去目標、失去意義,就是跟佛性,跟我們本來的真我,跟常樂我淨的本性家鄉偏離了,遠離了,疏遠了,人分裂、疏離了自己。所以,他當然要回歸本心、回歸本元,這就是人生的意義。

Namo Amituofo!

December 11, 2023

Dec 11, 2023

Voice of Master Jingzong - Q and A about the Purpose of Life

淨宗之聲 - 人生目的問答

Q11: What is the meaning of human life? We know life is impermanent and reincarnation is suffering. Our objective is to cease reincarnating and aspire to be reborn in Amitabha’s Pure Land. This is the aim and the meaning of our present lives. What is the meaning of our lives once we arrive in the Land of Bliss?

Our lives there are dedicated to cultivating, realizing, and ultimately becoming a Buddha. What is the purpose of becoming a Buddha?

To deliver suffering sentient beings, so that all people can become Buddhas. If delivering sentient beings is the meaning for the existence of a Buddha, is there any need for a Buddha once all sentient beings have been delivered?

Do Buddhas pursue other interests in addition to teaching and delivering sentient beings? These are questions I have always deeply struggled with.

Answer to Q11:

I rarely encounter a person who worries about Buddhas and bodhisattvas. It is entirely a matter of speculation when someone tries to understand a Buddha’s wisdom with the limited capacity and afflictions of ordinary beings.

Buddhas and bodhisattvas do not think like that. They never tell beings in the Pure Land to pursue the activities, goals, or pleasures of those in the Saha world. Their teachings are for the benefit of beings of different aptitudes, not for themselves. It is nearly impossible for ordinary beings to fully understand the minds of Buddhas and advanced bodhisattvas. All we can do is practice and try our best to understand the teachings that Shakyamuni Buddha decided were best for ordinary beings like us.

You have asked many questions; but, you have not thought deeply enough about them. The Buddhas have taught us that life is impermanent, reincarnation is suffering, and our only true hope is to depart from the cycle of rebirth.

“The value and meaning of life” are not just a few random words taught by buddhas and bodhisattvas; but, are their response to each person’s innate capacities and the struggles in their daily lives. Doesn’t every person have the desire to escape from suffering and attain lasting happiness?

(to be continued tomorrow)

問(11) 成佛後存在的意義、目標與追求

人活著的意義是什麼?我們知道生命無常,輪迴是苦,我們的希望就是脫離輪迴,念佛求生淨土是我們的目標、人生的意義。

我們去極樂世界的意義又是什麼呢?修證佛果,最終成佛。那成佛的意義是什麼呢?度化苦難眾生,人人成佛。如果度眾生是佛存在的意義,那麼眾生度盡了,都成佛了,還需要佛嗎?佛還有存在的意義嗎?都成佛了,那還會再有目標與追求嗎?弟子總是有很深的糾結。

淨宗之聲:

這還真遇到一個替佛菩薩起煩惱的人,這完全都是以凡夫情見測度佛智。這完全是凡夫的煩惱見。

佛菩薩不是你這樣想的,也沒有說追求什麼人生的價值、目的、意義,這都是對凡夫而論,不是對佛說的,佛對機說法,是對凡夫來說的。你把對凡夫說的套在佛菩薩身上,那能套得上嗎?

你給的這些答案都是書上的文字,沒有結合自己的心性。“生命無常,輪迴是苦,我們脫離輪迴就有希望”,這些都對。“生命的價值和意義”,不是佛菩薩教這幾個字,它是我們日常生活中本能的反應。我們每一個人都願意離苦得樂,對不對?

Namo Amituofo!

December 10, 2023

Dec 10, 2023

The Patriarchal Lineage of the Pure Land Teaching - Master Shandao

善導大師

As long as we recite Amitabha’s Name, we possess the unsurpassed merit and virtues necessary to become a Buddha. We are acclaimed as Pundarikas (Great White Lotus Flowers). Thus, Master Shandao says, “The functional capacity of the Samadhi of Amitabha-Recitation is absolutely transcendental. None of the miscellaneous virtues or other practices can be compared.”

He also concludes, in the Dissemination Chapter of his Commentary on the Contemplation Sutra by saying, “Though the preceding passages spoke of the merits of the meditative and non-meditative virtues, the Buddha’s underlying wish is that sentient beings recite Amitabha’s name single-mindedly.”

In the preceding passages, though Shakyamuni teaches the cultivation and benefits of the meditative and non-meditative virtues in great detail, his intention is to guide all varieties of evil and ordinary beings to exclusively recite Amitabha’s Name. (as stated in Amitabha’s Fundamental Vow) There is no need to include other teachings. Simply and exclusively rely on Amitabha’s deliverance and not on your own power.

只要我們念佛,就擁有成佛的無上功德,而且被讚歎為芬陀利華。因此善導大師才說:「念佛三昧,功能超絕,實非雜善,得為比類。」並且於《觀經》〈流通分〉的最後做出總結論而說:上來雖說定散兩門之益,望佛本願,意在眾生,一向專稱,彌陀佛名。

上來釋尊雖然廣開定散兩門的修行與利益,但是望向彌陀的本願,則釋尊的本意卻是要一切善惡凡夫都一向專稱彌陀佛名,不要夾雜其他法門;專靠彌陀救度,不靠自己功夫。

Namo Amituofo!

December 9, 2023

Dec 9, 2023

Master Huijing’s Short Dharma Teaching about the Classification of Teachings – the Two Practices (Primary and Miscellaneous)

正雜二行判

As far as the practice for rebirth is concerned, apart from reciting the Name of Amitabha, if you practice other teachings, they are regarded as “miscellaneous” practices.

往生之行除了彌陀這一句名號,其他種種的法門,你即使專修其中的一個,也是「雜」。

Namo Amituofo!

December 8, 2023

Dec 8, 2023

Common Knowledge in Pure Land Teaching

淨土小常識

108 Replete with the Three States of Mind

Master Honen says, “It is said that the Three States of Mind generally refer to single-minded aspiration for rebirth. If the mind of aspiration to be reborn is genuine, the Three States of Mind are naturally included.”

“Sincerely and joyfully entrust and wish to be reborn,” as said in the 18th Vow, are called the “Three States of Mind.” These are - the mind of “sincerity”, the mind of “joyfulness”, and the mind that “wishes to be reborn”. Though there are three states of mind taught by the Buddha, they are really only one. What is it? It is the mind of aspiration. That’s it! Why do I say that?

The sincere mind is the most fundamental of the three minds, and is the basis of the mind of aspiration. If the mind of aspiration is not false or pretentious; but, is genuine and natural, it is regarded as being replete with the Three States of Mind. That is to say, the joyful and sincere minds are included within the mind of aspiration.

108 具足三心

法然上人說:雖言三心,總而言之,唯一願生心,願心不偽,真欲往生,自然三心具足。

第十八願說「至心信樂,欲生我國」,這也叫「三心」:「至心」的心、「信樂」的心、「欲生我國」的心。雖然有「三心」,總而言之只有一個心,什麼心?「願生心」,就這樣而已。為什麼?

「至心」,那是最根本的,貫徹信心跟願生心。願心不偽、願心不虛假,真的嚮往,自自然然,不假造作,就會三心具足。這樣講起來,「至心、信樂、欲生」是只要我們存著一顆願生極樂之心,誓畢此生,永不退轉,這樣的話,至心在裏面了,信樂的功能也在裏面了。

Namo Amituofo!

December 7, 2023

Dec 7, 2023

A Verse sharing Compassionate Advice and Cautions - quoted from ‘In Praise of Pratyutpanna’ by Master Shandao

善導大師《般舟讚》慈悲勸誡

Amitabha’s vow power varies with his mind,

All of his four kinds of adornments are universally spread.

His Three Knowings and Six Paranormal Powers can be freely manipulated,

In order to permeate the minds of sentient beings according to his will,

So that goodness and excellent marks arise within them.

He can instantly manifest a Buddha body of a truly golden color.

The magnificent golden rays are the marks of Amitabha.

Countless haloed Buddhas appear before those who accept his deliverance.

彌陀願力隨心大,四種莊嚴普皆遍,

三明六通常自在,遍入眾生心想中。

佛身相好依心起,隨念即現真金佛,

真金即是彌陀相,圓光化佛現人前。

Namo Amituofo!

December 6, 2023

Dec 6, 2023

Master Huijing’s Short Dharma Teachings about Impermanence

慧淨法師之無常法語

The pink bones are buried in new graveyards.

Half of the sentient beings in the netherworld are black-haired.

青塚多埋紅粉骨,黃泉半是黑頭人。

Namo Amituofo!

December 5, 2023

Dec 5, 2023

Voice of Master Jingzong - Q and A about the Purpose of Life

淨宗之聲 - 人生目的問答

Q10: For what do people live? Just to aspire to be reborn in the Land of Bliss? What is the meaning of living for an ordinary person?

Answer: (continuation of the answer to Q10 - 6/6)

Only by establishing a purpose in life does our life become meaningful. It is like walking, each step is meaningful only if we have an aim and the prospect of reaching it. If our aim is clear and our prospects are positive, every step we walk is meaningful, isn’t it?

If we look at the life of a worm, if it doesn’t know where it’s going, what is the meaning of its crawling? It is the outcome that determines the meaning of every step.

It is similar to life. Once our goal of aspiring to be reborn in the Western Land of Bliss, in order to become a Buddha is determined, every step in our lives becomes meaningful.

No matter what we do for a living, where we live, with other people, or alone, the meaning is always different. This is because our paths and destinations are not the same.

只有我們建立了人生的目的,我們的現實生活才有意義可言。

就像我們走路一樣,之所以腳下的每一步都有意義,是因為我們有目標和前途。我們的目標明確,前途光明,腳下的步伐才有意義,是不是?

如果像隻蟲子一樣,也不知道往哪裡去,就在那裡轉悠,你說它走一步有什麼意義呢?是未來的前途決定了腳下步伐的意義。

人生也是一樣的。我們往生西方極樂世界成佛的目標一旦確定,我們生活中的每一步都非常有意義。

我們不管做什麼事,哪怕跟別人一樣居家過日子,意義也不一樣,因為我們的目標、目的地不一樣。

Namo Amituofo!

December 4, 2023

Dec 4, 2023

Voice of Master Jingzong - Q and A about the Purpose of Life

淨宗之聲 - 人生目的問答

Q10: For what reason do people live? Just to aspire to be reborn in the Land of Bliss? What is the meaning of living for an ordinary person?

Answer: (continuation of the answer to Q10 - 5/6)

Some people may follow other paths. They do not have the causal conditions, retributive blessings, or wisdom to select the Buddhist teachings. They may hear that a particular god is a creator and that they can fully rely on it. However, from the Buddhist perspective that is only a

temporary solution that will not bring them to the ultimate goal.

As a devoted Buddhist, even though we know it is not a path leading to the ultimate goal, we understand it is their right to choose the path they will follow in pursuing truth, fortune and happiness. Actually, they are at least moving in a more positive direction than those who do not choose and live aimlessly. They have found some value and meaning in their lives.

If people are willing to pursue infinity and fortune, they will find their direction sooner or later. If they don’t make any effort, they will never find their direction. People believe in and worship gods or demons for the sake of happiness; but, the teachings need to be positive.

Some people are greedy and, in hoping to make more money, they may commit crimes and go to jail. Some people may do good for others. This is very positive but not the ultimate.

(to be continued tomorrow)

有的人可能走其他路線,他沒有因緣、沒有福報、沒有智慧來選擇佛法,他可能聽說某某神是創造主,要靠他,暫時他覺得是這樣,事實上是不可能達到的。

雖然作為佛法的信仰者,我們瞭解這是不究竟的路線,但是我們也理解他。從我個人來講,我覺得可以理解,人們為了追求真理、追求幸福和快樂,有這種選擇的權利。

只是說他還沒有智慧、福報選擇正確的路線,但這種選擇比那種不選擇、糊里糊塗悶著頭往下過的人,要崇高、莊嚴得多,這也是他存在的價值和意義。

人們願意追求無限和幸福,他在努力,他遲早會找到這個方向;他如果不努力,就永遠找不到這個方向。

信神的、拜神的,甚至有些搞邪門歪道的,他們也是為了追求快樂。只不過方向、道理要正確。有的走向犯罪,他的目的也不是為了犯罪,只是為了多發點財,然後就貪了,貪了就坐牢了。

當然,這個方向、方法明顯錯誤了。還有一些,比如行善積德,這肯定是好的,但也是不究竟的。

Namo Amituofo!

December 3, 2023

Dec 3, 2023

Voice of Master Jingzong - Q and A about the Purpose of Life

淨宗之聲 - 人生目的問答

Q10: For what reason do people live? Only to aspire to be reborn in the Land of Bliss? What is the meaning of life for an ordinary person?

Answer: (continuation of the answer to Q10 - 4/6)

2. A Buddha is a self-enlightened being, and is capable of enlightening others through his perfect and complete practices.“Self-enlightened” means possessing perfect and complete wisdom. “Enlightening others” means to cut off their afflictions , and help them to reach a state of ultimate perfection and happiness.

Buddhism talks about Nirvana with pure self-nature. It is characterized by permanence, bliss, and the enlightened self(which is no - self and purity). A Buddha’s life and light are infinite and he has a thorough understanding of life and the universe. If you have doubts in life and the universe, will you be happy? If you don’t know or understand your purpose in this life, you cannot be happy.

All human beings have the capacity to pursue blessings and happiness. If we wish to fully accomplish this, we have to become a Buddha, who reaches the ultimate state of infinite light and infinite life.

As an ordinary being, it is not easy to reach that goal through our own power. For this reason, we choose to rely upon Amitabha Buddha’s Other-Power, and aspire to be reborn in his Land of Bliss in the West, which is a land of Nirvana.

In this world we exclusively recite Amitabha’s Name of infinite light and infinite life, in order to totally unite with and fulfill our purpose in life. Some people may think they can achieve enlightenment through the Buddha’s teachings of the Sacred Path, and it is not necessary to aspire to be reborn in the Land of Bliss.

2. 佛是自覺、覺他、覺行圓滿。自我覺悟,智慧圓滿,煩惱斷除;覺悟他人,斷除他人的煩惱,幫助他人達到究竟圓滿的境地,他就獲得了究竟圓滿的幸福與快樂。

佛講涅槃、常樂我淨,佛的壽命是無量壽,光明是無量光明,宇宙人生中沒有他不瞭解的事相。

如果對宇宙人生迷惑,無明,那你有幸福快樂嗎?你心裡不懂、不明白這些事,你也不能幸福快樂。

所以,從人追求幸福與快樂的天然本能這樣一個方向推到極致,必然要成佛,必然要達到一種無限的境地——無量光明、無量壽命。

這個目標,作為我們凡人,談何容易呢?它的方向、目標,就決定了我們要求生西方極樂世界。如果求生西方極樂世界,那裡就是涅槃的國土。

我們在這裡念的名號就是無量光明、無量壽命的名號,所以這自然就和我們人生的目的完全統一起來了。

我想這是一個合理的論斷。當然,有的人認為他有辦法自己修行達到,他未必要求生西方極樂世界,那是佛法中聖道門的修行。

Namo Amituofo!

December 2, 2023

Dec 2, 2023

Voice of Master Jingzong - Q and A about the Purpose of Life

淨宗之聲 - 人生目的問答

Q10: For what reason do people live? Just to aspire to be reborn in the Land of Bliss? What is the meaning of life for an ordinary person?

Answer: (continuation of the answer to Q10 - 3/6)

Thus, a person who wishes to pursue blessings and happiness, and reach a state of absolute safety and perfection, must break through all kinds of limitations, whether they are physical or mental.

However, accomplishing this is not easy. Throughout human history various kinds of religions have emerged. Certain religions say, “God is infinite. If you rely on God, you will have blessings and happiness.”

Buddhism talks about cultivation. If a person realizes the state of no-birth and no-death, he becomes a Buddha who dwells in a state of infinite and ultimate bliss. However, what if you die too soon, how can you achieve such happiness?

Our lives are limited, in both length and quality. Moreover, though you may be happy, your wife or your children may not be. This may make you unhappy and filled with regrets. Try to love all people as you love your family. Having loving hearts can be a source of happiness for us. Unfortunately, if we cannot make other people happy, and help them to attain perfect and complete blessings, this may lead to regrets.

So, in order to reach the aim of real and ultimate blessings and happiness, we have to practice self-benefiting by benefiting others, and guide others to do the same. Then we will more quickly reach the state of infinity.

(to be continued tomorrow)

所以,一個人追求幸福和快樂,要達到絶對的安全、圓滿,必須突破一切有限的障礙,不管是物質上還是精神上。

但是這談何容易呢?在此情況下,就誕生了種種宗教。有的人就靠宗教來達到這個,說:“神是無限的,你靠神了,你就有福了。”

佛教講修行,證悟無生法忍、不生不滅,成佛了,當然就無限了。說“很快樂”,如果馬上就要死,你能快樂嗎?你的壽命有限,不能長久。即使你快樂了,你老婆不能快樂,你心裡也有遺憾;孩子不能快樂,你也遺憾啊。

所謂“老吾老以及人之老”,我們有愛心,即使自己達到了,如果不能讓別人同樣獲得圓滿幸福和快樂,仍然遺憾,仍然不圓滿。

所以,要達到真正究竟圓滿的幸福和快樂,就這個目標,如果按正確的方向去引導,必然要達到無限,要自利利他。

Namo Amituofo!

December 1, 2023

Dec 1, 2023

Voice of Master Jingzong - Q and A about the Purpose of Life

淨宗之聲 - 人生目的問答

Q10: For what reason do people live? Only to aspire to be reborn in the Land of Bliss? What is the meaning of life for an ordinary person?

Answer (continuation of the answer to Q10 - 2/6)

1. Actually, most people are very greedy. For example, if you have 500 million dollars, you want to have 5 billion dollars. In terms of wealth, blessings and happiness, people wish to have the best of the best. However, there is always a limit.

In terms of health, one who is 120 years old may wish to be 150, or even 500. If you are a king, you may seek a medicine that will give you eternal life, just like the emperors in ancient China. Why?

As the master or king of the country , he may not care about the lives of his people. He believes it is fine for him to pursue unimpeded eternal blessings and happiness for himself. However, what happens at the end?

If we think about this more deeply, we know that all things are impermanent and we all must deal with other causative factors. For instance, if your health is limited, your ability to accumulate wealth and develop wisdom is also limited. How can you be happy?

(to be continued tomorrow)

1. 其實人在這世間,講得不好聽就是貪慾很重。比如發財,你發了五個億,還想五十億,總之什麼都要好得不得了。這樣你的幸福和快樂總是沒有邊,總是受到某種程度的侷限。

身體想好,活120歲還覺得不夠,想活150歲;150歲了,最好活500歲。當了皇帝以後,還要求長生不老藥,像秦始皇、漢武帝,派童男童女去求仙藥。他們為什麼這樣呢?也是為了追求幸福和快樂。

做了天下之主了,“你們老百姓死了就死了,我是皇上,我能死嗎?”怎麼辦?

去煉丹煉藥,找仙藥。我覺得這也無可厚非,不能說他們就很愚昧。

這也是代表人類的一種追求,要永恆、無障礙地幸福和快樂。

所以,如果要追求幸福和快樂,到最後只有一個趨向,就是必須達到無限。

你們想想是不是?只要是有限,就不可能幸福和快樂。你的健康有限,財富有限,能力有限,智慧有限,你怎麼會幸福和快樂呢?

Namo Amituofo!