Release Grasping through Chanting Amitabha

Yutang Lin

Origins are too subtle while buried too deep;
Makeup of thousand sorts beyond recognition.
Grasping to self not exhausted, thoughts impure;
Chanting Amitabha with one mind to approach innocence.

Comments:

The origins of self-centeredness is too subtle, and buried hidden under layers over layers of habits and prejudices. As to the enacting of self-centeredness is even more dramatic and full of varieties beyond recognition. A Buddhist practitioner certainly understands that it is a must to get rid of self-centered graspings; however, in view of its evasive nature, how should it be treated? Prior to eradication of self-centeredness all thoughts are hardly free from the pollution of self-imposed limitations, how could antidotal actions be undertaken? The practice of chanting the holy name of Amitabha Buddha emphasizes concentrating one's mind on "Amitabha" by repeating it over and over again until it becomes a habit that automatically repeats itself. In this way, all other thoughts that are polluted by self would become neglected and fade away. Understanding the above reasons behind this practice would enable one to appreciate the wonderful purification benefits and effects of this practice.

Written in Chinese: April 20, 1999
Translated: September 23, 1999
El Cerrito, California

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