Q: We’re taught that “Amitabha’s name is like a sharp sword - one recitation  eradicates all karmic obstacles.” So why do those who practice Amitabha-recitation still get sick and face difficulties? Is some karma simply unavoidable?

A: That strikes at the heart of what many practitioners wonder about. Let’s look at what  “eradicating all karmic obstacles” really means.

       Like light dispelling darkness, Amitabha’s name (the light) dissolves our transgressions (the darkness).

       But this primarily refers to obstacles blocking our path to the Pure Land.- it doesn’t mean all life’s challenges instantly vanish.

       Until we reach the Pure Land, we live in physical bodies bound by natural laws. Even when past karma is cleared, its effects can linger - like a tree that’s been cut down but its leaves haven’t yet withered.

       Our physical existence follows cause and effect. Until we reach the profound realization that nothing truly arises or ceases, we remain bound by the laws of the Three Domains. Yes, Amitabha-recitation clears the karma that ties us to samsara, but if you overeat and get sick, you’ll still need medicine - you can’t blame Amitabha for not preventing that!

       Let’s be honest, even while reciting, we don’t always follow Buddhist teachings perfectly. We still give in to greed, anger, and ignorance, which naturally create problems. The good news? None of these prevents our rebirth in the Pure Land.

       Once we are reborn there, we enter an entirely different realm. Then the power of Amitabha’s vows fully manifests.

       The term “immutable karma” contrasts with “mutable karma”.  Immutable karma refers to heavy karma that inevitably results in specific consequences, whereas mutable karma may or may not manifest.  Some karma ripens in the present, some in the near future, some in distant future lives. Immutable karma carries tremendous force and is inexorable - continuing its course unless counteracted by something even more powerful.

       Through practicing the Buddha Dharma, even immutable karma can dissipate easily. Why? Because karma is ultimately an illusion. When it meets something real - Amitabha’s name - the  illusion must dissolve. If Amitabha-recitation couldn’t overcome immutable karma, how could it possibly enable our rebirth in the Pure Land and attainment of Buddhahood?

       Even this life’s karma alone would block our path! That’s why Amitabha-recitation is called the “karma of assurance” - it guarantees our rebirth regardless of any karmic obstacles.

(Translated by the Pure Land School Translation Team;
edited by Householder Fojin)