Frequent Amitabha-Recitation Empowers a String of Beads
By Householder Jingtu
One day in 1986, I called upon Householder Lai at his home in Taipei. During our conversation he mentioned that the recitation beads of a Dharma master he knew possessed a particular power.
I long knew that Householder Lai had attained certain special powers. In order to test him, I handed him a string of beads I had on my wrist. “What about this?” I asked.
He took the beads and said, “There’s nothing special about them.” Actually, this string normally was just left on the table, without being used. I only picked it up for temporary use on this outing and hung it on my wrist.
Then I took from my pocket the 108-bead string that I normally use for Amitabha-recitation and gave it to him. “What about this one?” I asked. As soon as he touched it, Householder Lai responded, “Ah, yes! This one is powerful indeed.”
(Recorded by Huijing)
– English translation by Householder Guoshu,
Edited by Householder Jingtu
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