Diamondlike Shinjin: Do not depend on Amida’s coming at the moment of death

Namu Amida Butsu

This work is especially dedicated to Zuiken Saizo Inagaki, who sheds light on the pristine and original teachings of Jodo Shinshu (Shin Buddhism) for many people, including myself. I regard him as my soul teacher and I am very much influenced by his words and thoughts, which are deeply imbued with the Wisdom of Compassion of Amida Buddha. I read most of his writings available in Chinese language and I wish to share some of his golden words in this blog in English. Rev. George Gatenby and Mr. Gabriel Schlaefer have been kindly and untiringly assisting me to edit the translated essays so that they are readable and true to the intent of Sensei. May all partake of the wisdom of Shinshu teaching and be overpowered by the light of Amida Buddha.

Namu Amida Butsu!

Saturday, October 1, 2016

Do not depend on Amida’s coming at the moment of death

'Do not expect the Buddha to come to welcome you when you die.
Namo Amida Butsu that signifies
"embracing and not forsaking"
is coming to welcome you at all times.'
~ Zuiken's Shinshu Dharmapada

Our Shonin says, "There is nothing I can do about your fellow-practicers, who say that they await the moment of death. Those whose shinjin has become true and real – this being the benefit of the Vow – have been grasped, never to be abandoned; hence they do not depend on Amida’s coming at the moment of death. The person whose shinjin has NOT yet become settled awaits the moment of death in anticipation of Amida’s coming. "
~ Lamp for the Latter Ages, 18.