樂邦文類 4.57

4.57

Question: The pleasures of the Buddha-lands of the ten directions are all identical; why is the western direction specifically pointed out to encourage people to be born there? Answer: Truly it is because ordinary beings' karma is heavy, and they give rise to greed everywhere. If one direction were not specifically pointed out, they would not bind their minds in focused concentration. Therefore the Lotus Sūtra says: "Sentient beings are attached everywhere; I lead them to escape." Furthermore, the master of the Western Pure Land is superior and his vows are powerful; people are generally encouraged to be reborn there to swiftly achieve the holy fruit. That is why it is specifically pointed out.