The Concept of Preparations for Death in Pure Land Buddhism: A Case Study of the Great Pure Land Master Thích Thiền Tâm

Abstract

All sentient beings were born to die. It is very difficult to know which day we will die and where we will be reborn after death. As ordinary beings, we cannot choose the place of birth, but we can choose for ourselves a peaceful death and determine in which one will be reborn after death according to the Buddha’s teachings. In Mahāyāna Buddhism, Pure Land Buddhism is one of the most appropriate sects which can lead the practitioners to get out of samsāra in one lifetime through being born in the Pure Land of Amitābha Buddha. This documentary article is to study the concept of preparations for death to be reborn in the Sukhāvatī according to the great Master Thích Thiền Tâm’s teaching and practice of Pure Land Buddhism.

The findings show three main points that Pure Land practitioners should prepare to enhance their rebirth in the Pure Land. The first point is the practitioner should prepare the external conditions as well as spiritual preparation for his death while still in good health. The second one is about at the moment of death, it is necessary to invite the good spiritual advisors and good Dhamma friends to remind and support the dying person of recitation of the Amitabha Buddha’s name. And the last point is for the family and relatives of the dead person, they should know and follow the important tips to bring true benefits to the dead person. Thus, understanding the importance of preparing the Eve of Death, the Pure Land practitioners can arrange the essential conditions for their death to be reborn in the Pure Land immediately after the body leaves this world.