念佛鏡 2.106

2.106

The answer states: "If monastics and laypeople, men and women who have never practiced buddhānusmṛti in their lives, apply this method, they will all attain rebirth; there is definitely no doubt! I have often seen people in the world who ordinarily practice buddhānusmṛti, bow and praise, and make vows seeking rebirth in the West. But when illness arrives, they instead fear death and do not mention at all the matter of rebirth and liberation. Only when their breath is spent, their life has ended, and consciousness has plunged into the netherworld do [others] finally begin the ten recitations and strike the bell. This is just like locking the gate after the thief has fled—what good does it do? The matter of the gate of death is momentous; you must apply effort yourself for it to succeed. If there is a single errant thought, you will endure suffering across kalpas; who could take your place? Ponder this! Ponder this! When you are free of adversity, you should use this method to diligently practice buddhānusmṛti and uphold it with all your strength—this is the great matter of the end of life. It can be called: 'A single, vast and open road to the West; go straight home and ask no directions.'"