西方合論 2.11

2.11

Fourth, relying on the causal nature: All sentient beings possess this pure nature. It is like pure gold cast into hairpins, bracelets, or chamber pots. The nature of the gold is one; the chamber pot is merely a utensil whose filth belongs to the vessel, not the gold. If it is melted down and recast into various fine and pleasing articles, the gold remains unchanged. It is the same with sentient beings and the Buddhas: they share the same pure nature; the distinctions are merely like those between bracelets and chamber pots, not differences in their nature. Therefore, when ordinary mortals on this terrestrial plane attain rebirth in ten recitations, it is because of their fundamental purity. When Amitābha Buddha wishes to embrace these sentient beings and immediately does so, it is because sentient beings are fundamentally pure. It is like the brightness of a mirror, which is not produced by polishing; rebirth in the Pure Land is not brought about solely through vows, practices, and mindfulness power. Why is this? Mindfulness and practice are like the furnace and hammer: they merely melt the gold, but do not produce other gold.