Suffering As Spiritual Nourishment
By Master Zhisui
It is said that good fortune may follow disaster, and disaster may lurk within good fortune. What appears harmful may prove beneficial; what appears favorable may conceal danger.
Ultimately, everything depends on what we make of it.
Those who can turn suffering to their advantage on the spiritual path discover that trials and tribulations can become nourishment for liberation.
Suffering in itself is neither a blessing nor a curse. Favorable conditions are not automatically supportive of spiritual practice. Either can help us—or hinder us.
What determines the outcome is this: do we let circumstances shape us blindly, or do we turn them into fuel for the path?
The real question is not what we encounter, nor whether a place is suitable for practice. Those of deep spiritual realization, with strong inner stability, can practice anywhere. Ordinary beings, whose capacities and endurance are limited, may need more supportive conditions.
Yet without the right attitude, even the most favorable conditions cannot lead to growth. In fact, they may become the very circumstances that cause downfall.
We see this among many practitioners, including those of the Pure Land path. Before encountering Amitabha’s compassionate deliverance, they often applied themselves wholeheartedly. They studied diligently, embraced hard work and austerity, and disciplined themselves strictly.
Yet after learning of the Other-Power and assured rebirth in the Pure Land, some became lax and complacent. Instead of cherishing Amitabha’s compassion more deeply, they did the exact opposite – and fell into a trap of self-indulgence.
In the end, adversity and good fortune alike are the raw materials of life. What they become depends entirely on how we use them.
Namo Amitabha Buddha!
(How do we transform our daily challenges into ‘fuel for the path’? We would love to hear your reflections in the comments.)
(Translated by the Pure Land School Translation Team;
edited by Householder Fojin)
Characteristics
- Recitation of Amitabha’s name, relying on his Fundamental Vow (the 18th)
- Rebirth of ordinary beings in the Pure Land’s Realm of Rewards
- Rebirth assured in the present lifetime
- Non-retrogression achieved in this lifetime
The 18th Vow of Amitabha Buddha
If, when I achieve Buddhahood, sentient beings of the ten directions who sincerely and joyfully entrust themselves to me, wish to be reborn in my land and recite my name, even ten times, should fail to be born there, may I not attain perfect enlightenment. Excepted are those who commit the five gravest transgressions or slander the correct Dharma.
Guiding Principles
Faith in, and acceptance of, Amitabha’s deliverance
Single-minded recitation of Amitabha’s name
Aspiration to rebirth in Amitabha’s Pure Land
Comprehensive deliverance of all sentient beings