The Essence of the Original Vow

The Foundation of the Bodhisattva's Path

The Original Vow is the solemn, compassionate promise made by a Bodhisattva during their initial stages of practice. It is the guiding light that directs their spiritual journey. By diligently practising according to these vows, one can rediscover their true self. Once a practitioner has realised their true nature and attained Buddhahood, this Original Vow transforms into a boundless, active force for delivering all sentient beings from their suffering. If beings can align their own practice with this Original Vow, they will receive the profound blessings of the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, allowing them to fulfil their spiritual aspirations much sooner.

The Forty-eight Great Vows of Namo Amituofo

The Pure Land Dharma Gate is founded upon the practice of Dharmakara Bhikshu, who cultivated himself according to the Forty-eight Great Vows. Through his unwavering commitment, he established the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss. Because every one of his vows was fulfilled, he became known as Namo Amituofo. Therefore, the Forty-eight Great Vows are the very essence of the Original Vow of Namo Amituofo. By relying on these Forty-eight Great Vows, chanting the Holy Name "Namo Amituofo", and making the sincere vow to be reborn in the Western Land of Ultimate Bliss, one can realise their true nature and attain Buddhahood.

The Power of Two-Fold Practice

The Pure Land path is a unique method that relies on two distinct powers:

• Self-Power:
• The practitioner’s own sincere effort and determination to cultivate.Buddha’s Power: The majestic, compassionate blessing of Namo Amituofo that supports the practitioner.

When you begin with your own effort, you immediately open yourself to the supportive power of Namo Amituofo. To practise the Pure Land path effectively, one must follow the Forty-eight Great Vows, generate the Bodhi mind, and single-mindedly chant the Holy Name "Namo Amituofo". This is the fundamental skill required for all Pure Land practitioners.

The Infinite Depth of the Holy Name

As you deepen your practice beyond these basic skills, you will find that your purification becomes more profound. You will receive the magnificent power of merit and the majestic power of Namo Amituofo’s blessings. This is because the Holy Name "Namo Amituofo" contains everything necessary for your liberation:

• The Forty-eight Great Vows are contained within the Holy Name "Namo Amituofo".Precepts, meditative concentration, and wisdom are fully present within the Holy Name "Namo Amituofo".The most profound and supreme Zen is also contained within the Holy Name "Namo Amituofo".

A Path for the Age of Decline

In this age of the Dharma’s decline, the Pure Land Dharma Gate is the most compassionate and effective method available. It assists beings in leaving behind the sufferings of birth, aging, sickness, and death. It is a convenient and swift path that allows one to:

• Escape the cycle of reincarnation.Transcend the Three Realms of existence.Leave suffering behind and gain happiness.Attain ultimate liberation.

Ultimately, this is the supreme Dharma that enables all beings to rediscover their true self, realise their Buddha-nature, and attain Buddhahood. Namo Amituofo.