Preface

By Dharma Master Jingzong, adapted by Dharma

Master Zongdao

The full title of this work, Dharma Paths of the Samadhis of

Contemplation and Invocation of the Ocean-Like Characteristics

of Amitabha Buddha and Associated Merits, conveys that

Amitabha Buddha’s characteristics and merits are as boundless as

the ocean. Whether through contemplation or invocation, infinite

merit is accrued.

The practices detailed here are intended for special occasions.

Among the Five Primary Practices, it specifically addresses

the practice of reflection or meditation, assisting practitioners

in entering into the principal karma of assured rebirth (name-

recitation). In composing this work, Master Shandao seeks to

inspire those who favor meditative contemplation and invocation

to redirect their focus towards the exclusive recitation of

Amitabha’s name and reliance on his Fundamental Vow.

Master Shandao expounded the Five Primary Practices,

among which the recitation of Amitabha’s name is recognized as

the Karma of Assurance. In the conclusion of his Commentary on

the Contemplation Sutra, he writes:

Though preceding passages spoke of the merits of the

meditative and non-meditative virtues, the Buddha’s

underlying wish is that sentient beings recite Amitabha’s

name single-mindedly.

This underscores that single-minded recitation of Amitabha’s

name is the cornerstone for the establishment of the Pure Land

School and embodies Master Shandao’s consistent line of

thought.

Apart from the Commentary on the Contemplation Sutra,

known as the “Main Commentary,” his other four works,

including this text, collectively form the “Supplemental

Commentaries,” which evidently occupy a secondary yet

supportive role to the main commentary. This book, in particular,

centers on the Primary Practice of Contemplation. Both its titles

and content suggest that its teaching is auxiliary and subordinate

to the Karma of Assurance — name-recitation, as designated in

the Main Commentary.

Only by comprehending this principle can we gain a vantage

point, enabling us to take an overarching perspective, grasp the

integral structure, and capture the fundamental essence of the

entire work.

Ignorance of this principle is akin to ascending a mountain

from its base, where even a single twig or leaf can obscure the

climber’s view, leading to a mistaken impression that meditative

contemplation is the primary objective. As the saying goes, one

cannot see the forest for the trees.

Moreover, this book marks the first in the history of the entire

Pure Land tradition that comprehensive methods for assisting

the dying through recitation are presented. Its lucid exposition

of the benefits in the present life of Buddha-recitation —

including the elimination of negative karma, receiving protection

and remembrance from Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, extending

lifespan, and avoiding calamities and untimely demise — has

profoundly influenced Pure Land practitioners in subsequent

generations.

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