Hi Dharma-friends!

In this episode, we conclude the first part of the Shōzōmatsu Wasan, the collection known as "Hymns on the Right, Semblance, and Last Dharma-Ages."  Shinran encourages us ordinary beings of this Last Dharma-Age to take refuge in Amida's Great Vow and say the Name and, thereby, attain liberation through Power-Beyond-Self.  Shinran teaches that awakening or liberation through self-power practices is futile in this Last Dharma-Age in which we find ourselves.  Note the last verse, No. 59, is the famous "Ondokusan" recited or sung by Shin Buddhists everywhere as an expression of deep gratitude for this wonderful teaching of Amida's compassion and for those who have transmitted it to us across the centuries.

Next time, we will continue with the next group of gathas or hymns in the Shōzōmatsu Wasan.  Please be well!  For more good Dharma content, please check out the home page of the American Buddhist Study Center, ambuddhist.org

Palms together, Gary