A Discussion on Excerpts from the Scriptures of the Pure Land School
淨土宗精要法語討論
19. The Infinite Life Sutra - “Specially Retain and Preserve This Sutra”
“In times to come, the sutras and Dharma teachings will perish. But out of pity and compassion, I will specially retain and preserve this sutra, and keep it in the world for one hundred years more. Sentient beings who encounter it can all obtain deliverance as they wish.”
Question 19.1: Why didn’t Shakyamuni Buddha specially retain and preserve the Sutras of the Sacred Path?
Answer: The Pure Land Sutras expound the path of deliverance through Amitabha Buddha’s power, which does not differentiate based on the practitioner's aptitude or capacity, and bestows the supreme benefit upon all. In contrast, the Sacred Path Sutras require self-power for cultivation and realization. During the Dharma-ending age, sentient beings will lack the capacity to practice them effectively.
19. 《無量壽經》特留此經
當來之世,經道滅盡,我以慈悲哀愍,特留此經止住百歲。其有眾生,值斯經者,隨意所願,皆可得度。
19.1 問:釋迦牟尼佛為什麼不特留聖道經典?
答:淨土經典宣說佛力救度的果地法門,不簡根機,惠施無上大利。聖道經典須待自力修證,法滅時期眾生根機不堪。
Namo Amituofo!
