念佛鏡 2.100

2.100

The Master said: "Good indeed is your question! Whenever anyone wishes to be reborn in the pure land at the end of life, they must never fear death! Constantly contemplate this body as full of suffering, entangled in various impure and evil karmas; if one can abandon this defiled form, transcend to rebirth in the pure land, receive boundless joy, and be liberated from the painful destinies of birth and death, this is truly a delightful matter, like shedding tattered clothes and receiving precious garments. One must simply let go of body and mind and give rise to no clinging attachment. Whenever encountering illness, immediately contemplate impermanence and wait for death single-mindedly. Urge family members, caretakers, and visitors: 'Whenever coming before me, recite the Buddha's name for me; do not speak idle, miscellaneous worldly chatter, or matters of domestic affairs; nor is there need for soothing words of comfort wishing peace and happiness, for these are all hollow and useless words. When illness is severe and approaching the end, relatives must not weep, shed tears, or utter sighs and lamentations, disturbing the mind and spirit and causing the loss of right mindfulness. You must simply chant the Buddha's name in unison to assist in rebirth. Only after the breath has ceased for a long time may you weep in grief. If there is the slightest thought of attachment to the world, it becomes an obstacle and prevents liberation. If one can obtain someone who clearly understands the pure land to frequently come and encourage oneself, it is extremely fortunate!' If one acts according to this, rebirth is certain without doubt!"