One of the Speeches by Master Zhai Mang: (June 30, 2023)#
Namo the Third World Vajra Buddha!
Namo the Buddha Shakyamuni, the founder of Buddhism in the Saha World!
Namo the Mother Buddha of the King of Jade Flower Longevity!
Namo all Buddhas, Vajras, Bodhisattvas, Sky Dancers, and Dharma Protectors of the Ten Directions!
Today, we Buddhist disciples gather here to commemorate the birthday of Namo the Third World Vajra Buddha and to celebrate the publication of the "Complete Collection of the Scriptures of Namo the Third World Vajra Buddha"!
The publication of the "Complete Collection of the Scriptures of Namo the Third World Vajra Buddha" is not only a major event in the Saha World but also a significant event for the entire Dharma Realm!
We know that unlike all other Buddhas in the Dharma Realm, Namo the Third World Vajra Buddha is not a Buddha who attained enlightenment in any sentient being's world, but rather descended directly into this world as a Buddha in the form of the primordial Buddha. The great Namo the Third World Vajra Buddha descended into the Saha World during this degenerate age to teach us the supreme, untainted essence of the Buddha Dharma brought directly from the Buddha's pure land! Now, as we compile and publish the "Complete Collection of the Scriptures of Namo the Third World Vajra Buddha," it not only expresses our gratitude and remembrance towards Namo the Third World Vajra Buddha but, more importantly, countless sentient beings will attain liberation through studying this collection! It can be confidently said that the "Complete Collection of the Scriptures of Namo the Third World Vajra Buddha" will be the fundamental guide for all future Buddhists to achieve liberation!
So far, three volumes of the "Complete Collection of the Scriptures of Namo the Third World Vajra Buddha" have been published, and it is estimated that two to three more volumes will be released this year, with the remaining volumes planned to be published at a rate of about five volumes per year.
The "Complete Collection of the Scriptures of Namo the Third World Vajra Buddha" encompasses the essence of all Buddhist Tripitaka and Tantric texts, whether it be precepts, knowledge, practices, or methods of cultivation, whether it be Theravada, Mahayana, or Tantric teachings, whether it be sentient beings, Arhats, or Bodhisattvas, Namo the Vajra Buddha has pointed out the most direct and rapid path for us to advance. Moreover, even if we study any single volume seriously, practicing diligently, as long as we delve deeply into one aspect, it will definitely lead us to liberation. For example, in the first volume "Teaching the Dharma in the East," if we truly understand it and practice according to the Buddha's teachings, we will undoubtedly achieve success in this life, without a doubt. During the process of organizing and editing the scriptures, I have personally experienced this, and not only I, but many Dharma teachers and Rinpoches have also told me: they deeply regret not having studied seriously before, and through this recording and organizing, they have discovered many teachings and principles of the Buddha that they had missed despite hearing the Dharma multiple times, and they did not remember or practice them accurately. This time, they recognized the problems and learned a lot, making significant progress. Therefore, now that we have the Buddhist texts, everyone can learn better and uphold the right view.
So here, it is important to note a very crucial point: studying Buddhist texts must be combined with one's own practice. We must implement the teachings and insights we learn into our own cultivation. If we understand the principles but do not practice them, we will ultimately end up "counting the treasures of others," while others achieve liberation, we remain trapped in the cycle of rebirth.
At the same time, if conditions allow, we should combine the study of Buddhist texts with respectfully listening to the Buddha's teachings, as this can enhance our understanding of the Dharma and also receive the Buddha's blessings, gaining dual benefits.
The "Complete Collection of the Scriptures of Namo the Third World Vajra Buddha" has a notable distinction from the scriptures of Namo Shakyamuni Buddha, which is that the scriptures spoken by Namo the Third World Vajra Buddha are more colloquial. This is indeed our blessing. Namo the Vajra Buddha, addressing the characteristics and conditions of sentient beings during this degenerate age, uses familiar language and various methods that the public can accept to explain principles, draw analogies, provide examples, and elucidate the profound meanings of the Buddha's teachings in an easily understandable manner. In fact, when Namo Shakyamuni Buddha taught the Dharma, it was also in a colloquial and vivid manner; it was only when the five hundred bhikshus recorded and compiled the Buddha's teachings into scriptures that written language was formed, and with the translations by the ancestors into Chinese, it became even more formalized, which has led to some modern individuals being unable to fully and accurately understand the principles of the Buddha's teachings. Therefore, this time in compiling the "Complete Collection of the Scriptures of Namo the Third World Vajra Buddha," we have particularly preserved this colloquial characteristic to facilitate our learning and understanding, both now and for future generations.
The publication of the "Complete Collection of the Scriptures of Namo the Third World Vajra Buddha" will greatly facilitate our learning anytime and anywhere. We not only learn ourselves but also embody the spirit of Bodhisattvas benefiting others, creating various opportunities and conveniences for more people to study the Buddhist texts of Namo the Vajra Buddha, allowing more individuals to embark on the path of cultivation and liberation. This is our best way to spread the Dharma and benefit sentient beings.
Today, there are many English-speaking Buddhist disciples here who are looking forward to the English version of the Buddhist texts. I would like to inform everyone that the first and second volumes of the "Complete Collection of the Scriptures of Namo the Third World Vajra Buddha" have already begun translation, and the second volume "Teaching the Dharma According to the Needs of Disciples During Travel" will be completed this year. The third volume "Explaining the True Meaning Through the Heart Sutra" has already been translated by Bodhi Wintu Rinpoche and will be published once the review is completed.
I would also like to emphasize that while studying the "Complete Collection of the Scriptures of Namo the Third World Vajra Buddha," except for the third volume "Explaining the True Meaning Through the Heart Sutra," no one should record the full text of any other volume, any full article, or any entire paragraph in text form, convert it into photos or videos, or post it online as audio. It should not be made into an electronic book for circulation. This is to better disseminate the Buddhist texts of Namo the Third World Vajra Buddha. Some individuals may wish to write reflections or articles on Dharma protection; they may quote a few sentences, but they cannot quote an entire paragraph or an entire article. Additionally, some people have already changed the name of the "Complete Collection of the Scriptures of Namo the Third World Vajra Buddha" to another name, which is not permissible and will bring negative karma to them.
Furthermore, taking this opportunity, I would like to share my opinions on some important issues that have been raised recently for everyone's reference.
First, Namo the Third World Vajra Buddha teaches Buddhist disciples to "bear humiliation and shame." We must always remember this. The Saha World is inherently a "world of five turbidities," filled with various sufferings, compounded by our own karmic actions accumulated since beginningless time, cycling through the six realms and creating various negative karma. Moreover, throughout the history of Buddhism, wherever there is the existence of the true Dharma, there will be the destruction by demons. With the publication of the "Complete Collection of the Scriptures of Namo the Third World Vajra Buddha," demons will undoubtedly retaliate and destroy. Especially now, during this degenerate age, "the demons are strong, and the Dharma is weak, leading to much suffering." Therefore, it is very normal for us Buddhists to encounter some persecution and oppression in this life; this is also a manifestation of our own karma. Let us reflect on the greatness of Namo the Third World Vajra Buddha, who, despite the darkness of this degenerate age, still comes to the Saha World, bearing the karma of sentient beings, guiding us to learn Buddhism and achieve liberation. How great is the Buddha! How can we not be endlessly grateful?! Therefore, each of us Buddhist disciples, especially in difficult times, must follow the Buddha's teachings, willing to give up our lives but not the Dharma, endure humiliation, cultivate ourselves, benefit the public, benefit society, and benefit the nation! I remember saying at last year's Buddha's birthday ceremony: "A Buddhist is upright, dignified, and truly stands tall! So what does it mean to be a true Buddhist? It means to always prioritize the Buddha's teachings, the precepts established by the Buddha, and the welfare of sentient beings. If we achieve these three points, no matter how the external world changes, no matter what storms we face, we can become a true pillar of support."
Second, whether in the past or present, the World Buddhist Headquarters has unwaveringly executed the Buddha's teachings, spreading the Dharma and benefiting sentient beings. However, there are a few individual Buddhists who do not earnestly study the Buddha's teachings, driven by personal interests, harboring resentment and attachment, slandering the headquarters and the holy virtues, and have become evil individuals. Even more, some have received the sacred teachings directly transmitted by the Buddha but have strayed onto the wrong path. To be honest, these individuals are very pitiful and sad; if they do not repent, the consequences will be right before them! Therefore, as Buddhist disciples, we should first admonish and educate these evil individuals. If we lack the ability to educate them, we must completely distance ourselves from them.
Third, I mentioned last year at the ceremony that a great holy virtue promised to transmit the corresponding Dharma to qualified practitioners, resulting in many people writing letters and calling to request teachings. Seeking teachings is a good thing, and the great holy virtue is the greatest Mahasattva and will never speak falsely. However, everyone must remember one thing: the great holy virtue will act according to the precepts! Therefore, we must first improve our own conduct. If our actions do not meet the established standards, the great holy virtue will not be able to confer teachings upon us.
In summary, we Buddhist disciples must always remember: our goal is to attain liberation from birth and death, and our actions should be selfless and altruistic. All of this is inseparable from the Buddha's teachings. Therefore, we must always be as sincere and respectful towards the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, the Buddha Dharma, and earnestly listen to the teachings of Namo the Third World Vajra Buddha, study the Buddhist texts of Namo the Third World Vajra Buddha, acquire right knowledge, maintain right views, and cultivate both merit and wisdom.
I wish all participants in the ceremony and all sentient beings to fulfill their good wishes, receive blessings and wisdom, and achieve great liberation and accomplishments! I wish for the prosperity and strength of the nation, the happiness and peace of the people, world peace, and the auspiciousness and joy of all sentient beings!
Finally, let us once again pay homage to
Namo the Third World Vajra Buddha!
Namo Shakyamuni Buddha!
Namo the Mother Buddha of the King of Jade Flower Longevity!
Namo all Buddhas, Vajras, Bodhisattvas, Sky Dancers, and Dharma Protectors of the Ten Directions!
One of the Speeches by Master Zhai Mang: (July 1, 2023)#
Originally, there was no speech scheduled for today’s agenda, but this morning, Master Zheng Da said that before the ceremony ends, he hopes I can say a few words to encourage everyone.
I said, "I am not qualified to encourage everyone; it is the Buddha's teachings that can encourage you." So I did not prepare anything. However, just now, the Vina announced that I would speak. Well, since this is the cause and condition, I will share two points, which are my personal insights and also a mutual encouragement for everyone.
What is the first point? I will first share two anecdotes. The first anecdote is about a holy virtue from Sichuan, Brother Luo Yunlong, whom many of us know, previously referred to as Brother Yunzi. In the Dharma teachings of the Buddha, it was mentioned that the Buddha was traveling in a car from Chengdu towards Dayi when he encountered him walking alone towards Chengdu. As a result, when the Buddha arrived at Jinghui Mountain Park in Dayi, Brother Luo Yunlong had already been there for quite a while, having finished all the tea!
After this miraculous event, many people, including Xiraogen and Wenzhongxia, were shocked!
So what is the cause and condition of this holy virtue, Luo Yunlong? This relates to his past life. Back then, Brother Luo Yunlong was a disciple of Namo Shakyamuni Buddha. One day, he fell ill, and since Shakyamuni Buddha was busy, he asked Master Vimalakirti—who is our great Buddha Master—to help him heal.
The Buddha Master said, "Sure, no problem."
However, the next day, when the Buddha Master went to treat him, he found out that Brother Luo Yunlong had already passed away the night before! Therefore, the Buddha Master allowed him to return to the Saha World in this life, as his cause and condition were in the Saha World. Thus, in this life, he encountered the Buddha Master early on, and the Buddha Master transmitted the Buddha Dharma to him, and he achieved liberation. This is the first anecdote.
The second anecdote is about a brother from Germany, Gongjue Rinpoche, whom I just saw in the offering line. He wrote about his experiences and released a video, which many people may have seen, where the Buddha Master personally came to his altar to inform him about the promise of a secret empowerment. Regardless of whether he saw it in a vision or the Buddha Master personally visited his altar, what matters is that the Buddha never speaks falsely! The promises made will be fulfilled. Moreover, his main deity—Green Tara—also personally confirmed this matter.
So what do I mean by sharing these two anecdotes? It is to tell everyone that the Buddha never speaks falsely; everything the Buddha has said will surely come to pass. Therefore, Namo the Third World Vajra Buddha has spoken so many Dharma teachings in this world, explaining the truths of life and the universe, pointing out the path of practice for sentient beings to attain liberation, which is the absolute truth! Now, as we compile it into the "Complete Collection of the Scriptures of Namo the Third World Vajra Buddha" to be spread in the world, we tell everyone to study the Buddha's scriptures, practice according to the Buddha's teachings, and then cultivate the Dharma, and you will definitely achieve liberation, without a doubt!
On another note, we must consider that the current world has a population of 7.8 billion, meaning that the number of human beings has exceeded 7.8 billion. According to United Nations statistics, the number of Buddhists is approximately 360 million, with another claim of 600 million; this is not important. What is important is how many of us have truly learned the right Dharma from the Tathagata and the Buddha!
Therefore, we should feel extremely fortunate; this is not just an ordinary "we should feel fortunate" concept. Everyone should understand how rare it is to encounter the Buddha and the great Namo the Third World Vajra Buddha in this life! If you have read the "Long Agama Sutra" of Namo Shakyamuni Buddha, you will understand how many disciples each Buddha has when they come to this world. You can find out by reading it.
Thus, encountering the Buddha is the result of countless lifetimes of cultivation that has accumulated such merit and blessings. Therefore, in this life, we must take advantage of this good cause and condition to earnestly follow the Buddha's teachings, practice diligently, and then attain liberation; this is the first point.
The second point is that over the past year, including myself, our office, and the World Buddhist Headquarters, we have received some letters and emails. Some are criticisms of us, including myself; some contain complaints. In light of today's circumstances, I want to tell everyone that I humbly accept all your criticisms; this is truly not speaking falsely.
At the same time, I want to tell everyone that each of us has our own habits, shaped by the environment in which we learn and grow, leading to different causes and habitual tendencies. For example, some people prefer to be quick, while others prefer to be slower; some like things one way, while others prefer a different approach. These differences in understanding have led to some misunderstandings, conflicts, and complaints. So, as I said, I humbly accept everyone's criticisms, but I also ask for your tolerance and understanding. Because including myself, we are all beings learning from the Buddha, and each of us has different habits and tempers. We are also in the process of cultivation, and through this process, we can improve and grow.
However, as a whole, including myself, my colleagues in the office, and all the colleagues at the World Buddhist Headquarters, they are all diligently serving everyone, and they do not harbor ill intentions, without a doubt. I won't mention anything else; just look at this ceremony. You see how many people have been organizing from early on, renting this venue in a short time, and everyone has put in great effort. What is it for? It is for us to have a fulfilling ceremony, for us to better learn the Buddha's scriptures and the Buddha's teachings.
So, in short, any complaints or suggestions can be written to us, and we will definitely improve. We will do our utmost to serve everyone, serve the Buddhist disciples, and serve all sentient beings. We are all on the path of following the Buddha to learn and practice Buddhism. Some of us walk faster, some slower; some are ahead, some are behind. But no matter what, we support each other, promote each other, and encourage each other, okay? Then, in this life, we strive for everyone to reach the Buddha's land of liberation and not remain trapped in this cycle of rebirth! This is what I wanted to say.
I apologize to the English translators; please help translate for those who speak English, as there is no script. There is also a way; if there is video or audio recording, you can translate based on that recording for them, whether in Chinese, English, or Spanish. We are all fellow practitioners, good Buddhist disciples, and we are all advancing together on the path of cultivation, ultimately becoming liberated saints, okay?
(Participants: Okay!)
Well, finally, once again, I wish all participants in this ceremony, as well as all Buddhist disciples who did not attend this ceremony, and all sentient beings who have not yet learned Buddhism, all auspiciousness and fulfillment. We hope that everyone at this ceremony, upon returning, will become a pillar of support in your community and locality, just as the Buddha has asked us to, okay?
(Participants: Okay!)
Thank you, everyone, thank you!
Speech by Master Zheng Da: (July 1, 2023)#
Namo the Third World Vajra Buddha, Namo the Mother Buddha of the King of Jade Flower Longevity
Namo all Buddhas, Vajras, Bodhisattvas, Sky Dancers, and Dharma Protectors of the Ten Directions
Today is the eve of the birthday of our great and compassionate Namo the Third World Vajra Buddha. Elders, respected guests, and Buddhist disciples from all over the world, as well as the faithful, gather here in this solemn and grand ceremony to welcome the birthday of Namo the Third World Vajra Buddha. Our unwavering sacred wish, I believe, is the same for everyone. Over the past year, we have all genuinely felt infinite gratitude and deep longing for the teachings, care, and love of the great compassionate Namo the Third World Vajra Buddha and the Mother Buddha of the King of Jade Flower Longevity. Especially during this solemn and grand Buddha's birthday ceremony, we feel even more longing and gratitude for the great compassionate Buddha and Mother, while also reflecting rigorously on our actions, sincerely repenting for all our karmic offenses from beginningless ignorance, and consistently praying earnestly for the Buddha and Mother to return to the Saha World soon to save us, the karmic disciples, and all suffering sentient beings.
Yesterday, we held a grand ceremony to welcome the "Complete Collection of the Scriptures of Namo the Third World Vajra Buddha," officially releasing this perfect complete set of Buddhist texts, which is undoubtedly a truly supreme treasure. The true Dharma of the Tathagata can undoubtedly bring auspiciousness and fulfillment to countless sentient beings. We are moved and grateful for the great compassionate Buddha Master descending into this Saha World during this degenerate age, bringing the truly pure and supreme Buddha teachings, and using the Buddha's boundless compassion and wisdom to provide clear and straightforward answers to all the problems encountered in worldly and transcendental practices, serving as the true cause for sentient beings to enter the right path and attain enlightenment.
Everyone should earnestly and sincerely read this complete collection of scriptures countless times, combining it with the teachings of the Buddha Master, respectfully listening to the Dharma, understanding the meanings of the scriptures, mastering the principles of the Dharma, practicing according to the teachings, strictly observing the precepts, naturally distancing from negative karma, increasing blessings and wisdom, realizing the true meaning of life and the universe, achieving liberation, and transcending birth and death. Moreover, we, the seven groups of Buddhist disciples, should earnestly promote this complete and perfect collection of scriptures, allowing more destined sentient beings to learn this supreme and complete Buddha Dharma and achieve liberation.
Over the past year, I have seen many of the seven groups of Buddhist disciples earnestly following the teachings of Namo the Third World Vajra Buddha, refraining from all evils and practicing all good deeds, doing their utmost to help and benefit sentient beings, compassionately rescuing and releasing various lives, sincerely listening to the Buddha Master’s teachings and reading the scriptures, actively protecting the Dharma without fear, believing in cause and effect, correcting their actions, and truly supporting and promoting the right Dharma of Namo the Third World Vajra Buddha and Namo Shakyamuni Buddha. They have truly enabled more sentient beings to learn the perfect Buddha Dharma personally transmitted by Namo the Third World Vajra Buddha, increasing their blessings and wisdom and establishing corresponding actual merits. As long as everyone remains consistently diligent and courageous, there is no need to worry about achieving liberation; the liberation and happiness of sentient beings are the hopes of Namo the Third World Vajra Buddha and all Buddhas of the Ten Directions.
Finally, I wish everyone all the best, everlasting happiness and prosperity, complete blessings and wisdom, and early realization of enlightenment. I wish for all countries in the world to prosper, have abundant harvests, enjoy world peace, and for all sentient beings to be auspicious and joyful.