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!
