觀無量壽佛經疏 4.52

4.52

Fourth, from 'when the practitioner is about to die' down to 'in the seven-jeweled pond,' directly clarifies in the ninth gate the holy beings coming to welcome at the end of life and the speed of departing. There are nine points: First, clarifies that the lifespan will not last long. Second, clarifies Amitābha and the sacred assembly bringing a golden lotus to respond. Third, clarifies the transformation Buddhas simultaneously extending their hands. Fourth, clarifies the sacred assembly praising in unison. Fifth, clarifies that because the practitioner's sins are extinguished, it says 'pure'; recounting what was originally cultivated, it says 'generated the supreme aspiration for awakening.' Sixth, clarifies that although the practitioner beholds the divine presence, doubting and fearing that they might not attain rebirth, the sacred assembly therefore addresses them in unison, saying, 'I come to welcome you.' Seventh, clarifies that having been addressed, they immediately see their own body already seated upon the golden flower, which closes around them. Eighth, clarifies being born in a single thought-moment following behind the Buddha. Ninth, clarifies being in the jeweled pond upon arrival.