Even on the Hardest Road:The Buddha’s Protection
By Master Foxin
On the most arduous path of life’s journey,
Amidst the harshest trails and deepest agony,
One stands solitary, in solitude’s embrace,
Yet tethered to unseen forces of karma’s power.
The ordinary yet mighty name of “Namo Amituofo,”
A steadfast companion through life’s ebbs and flows,
Never changing, never forsaking,
Life after life.
In the unknowable and unseen realm,
I find solace in the Buddha’s name,
No road too rugged,
For the Buddha walks with me.
No task too daunting,
For the Buddha handles it for me.
In the face of adversity, the Buddha prevails,
In the midst of darkness, his light never fails.
Far away the Pure Land might appear,
With faith and aspiration,
I arrive there in no time
On board the Buddha’s sturdy vessel.
(Translated by the Pure Land School Translation Team;
edited by Householder Fojin)
Characteristics
- Recitation of Amitabha’s name, relying on his Fundamental Vow (the 18th)
- Rebirth of ordinary beings in the Pure Land’s Realm of Rewards
- Rebirth assured in the present lifetime
- Non-retrogression achieved in this lifetime
The 18th Vow of Amitabha Buddha
If, when I achieve Buddhahood, sentient beings of the ten directions who sincerely and joyfully entrust themselves to me, wish to be reborn in my land and recite my name, even ten times, should fail to be born there, may I not attain perfect enlightenment. Excepted are those who commit the five gravest transgressions or slander the correct Dharma.
Guiding Principles
Faith in, and acceptance of, Amitabha’s deliverance
Single-minded recitation of Amitabha’s name
Aspiration to rebirth in Amitabha’s Pure Land
Comprehensive deliverance of all sentient beings