Introduction

Chapter on the Easy Path is the ninth section of Nagarjuna’s

Exposition of the Ten Stages. The work was translated by

Tripitaka Master Kumarajiva in 412.

The main intention of the Chapter on the Easy Path was to

induce general Mahayana practitioners to forsake the difficult

way for the easy one and recite the name of Amitabha Buddha

according to his Fundamental Vow. Its goal was achievement of

the Bodhisattva path’s “non-retrogression in the present lifetime,”

and the method was “reciting and holding fast to” Amitabha’s

name.

The Chapter comprises two sets of questions and answers.

In the first, certain easy practices are identified from among the

innumerable Dharma teachings. The second series singles out

Amitabha’s Easy Path from among the easy practices of the

Buddhas and Bodhisattvas.

Chapter on the Easy Path is the first scripture to be esteemed

by the Pure Land School, and its contributions to the lineage are fundamental and directional. They consist of two elements:

the basis of Dharma-categorization by the Pure Land School in

subsequent eras;

Buddha’s Fundamental Vow: It provides a brief explanation of

Amitabha’s 18th Vow.

Amitabha Buddha’s Fundamental Vow is like this: If

someone recites my name and takes refuge in me, this person at

once attains the karma of assurance and will achieve supreme

enlightenment (Anuttara-samyak-sambodhi). One should

therefore recite often.

This explanatory gatha indicates that the core of Pure Land

teaching lies in the 18th Vow of Amitabha Buddha, and calls it

the “Fundamental Vow.” Its promise is accomplished through

“name-recitation.” As a result, “name-recitation according to

Amitabha’s Fundamental Vow” became the basic springboard for

the development of Pure Land thought. Without name-recitation

according to Amitabha’s Fundamental Vow, there would be no

Pure Land teaching – and no Pure Land School.Master Nagarjuna also wrote The Twelve Rites, in a single

fascicle. Consisting of seven-character gathas, it focuses entirely

on the ritual veneration of Amitabha Buddha and is much loved

by Pure Land practitioners.

— By Master Jingzong, A General Guide to the Pure Land School

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