慈悲道場懺法 8.19

8.19

Today, members of the assembly sharing this karmic endeavor in the bodhimaṇḍa! Together we have already paid homage to the Buddhas on behalf of the devas, immortals, and the eight classes of nāgas and spirits. Next, we should pay homage to the Buddhas on behalf of all human rulers of the human realm to repay their kindness, and also on behalf of parents, teachers, elders, and all the people. Why is this? If there were no sovereign, all sentient beings would have nothing to rely upon. It is due to the great sovereign that all can dwell [in safety], walk upon the sovereign's land, and drink the sovereign's water; other benefits cannot be recounted in full. The assembly should each arouse a mind to repay this kindness. A sūtra says: 'If one can endure hardship during the six intervals of a day and night in order to benefit others and repay kindness, one should arouse such a mind and practice compassion and loving-kindness.' Through the power of these vows, we repay the kindness of the ruler and repay the kindness of donors. Furthermore, one should remember to practice the Way to repay the kindness of loving upbringing by one's parents; one should also practice the Way to repay the kindness of loving instruction by one's teachers and elders; and next, one should direct one's mind to remember the kindness of the Tathāgata. If one can constantly be mindful [of this] with utmost sincerity without interruption, such people will swiftly enter the Way.