樂邦文類 1.308

1.308

For contemplating the Buddha of Immeasurable Life, there are two kinds of people. The dull ones first contemplate one inch above their own forehead, removing the skin and flesh so that they see only red bone. Tying mindfulness to this object, they think of no other thought; if the mind strays to other conditions, they gather it back. Next, they contemplate the red bone, one inch square, causing it to become white like mother-of-pearl. Again, they transform their whole body into white bones, without skin or flesh. Furthermore, they transform this skeleton body so that it becomes the pure color and light of vaiḍūrya. From within this vaiḍūrya body, white light is emitted, spreading from near to far, pervading the entire Jambudvīpa, so that one sees only light and sees no objects. Then they gather the light back into their body. After it has entered, within the light they contemplate the Buddha of Immeasurable Life sitting cross-legged, his countenance majestic like a purple-gold mountain. They tie mindfulness to the Buddha, not letting it stray to other conditions, always as if sitting face-to-face with the Buddha without any difference. As for those of sharp faculties, they need only first form a visualization of brightness, resplendent, empty and pure. Then within the brightness they contemplate the Buddha, and will readily be able to see him. If a practitioner wishes to be born in that realm, they should perform this contemplation. Next, they contemplate that all phenomena are in their true mark ultimately empty, yet they constantly give rise to great compassion toward sentient beings, fully dedicating all roots of goodness with the aspiration to be born in that realm; they will then attain rebirth.