The Pure Land Lay Buddhist Association of VietnamSimple teachings, integrated into daily life
Originating from Buddhist teachings, the sermons and scriptures of the Pure Land Buddhist Association of Vietnam are interpreted very briefly and simply to suit the level and lifestyle of the ordinary working class. The foundational doctrinal system is distilled from key sutras and treatises such as the “Sigalovada Sutta” (Homage to the Six Directions), teachings on marital relations and ethics, “Buddhist on oral examination/Q&Asession” and methods for realizing one’s true nature. These materials not only shape the path of practice leading to enlightenment and the realization of true nature but also clearly affirm the value and role of lay practitioners within the Buddhist tradition.
The core of the Association’s practice is fully encapsulated in the motto: “The dual cultivation of merit and wisdom”:
Cultivating merit: Contributing effort, wisdom, and financial resources to develop the traditional medicine system (charitable traditional medicine clinics) in order to provide free medical examinations and treatment to the public. This is regarded as a virtuous means of helping the needy connect with the Buddha-Dharma.
Cultivating wisdom: Studying Buddhist sutras, monastic codes (Vinaya) and philosophical treatises to deepen understanding and develop the wisdom that leads to liberation and happiness. Here, merit and wisdom rely upon and reinforce each other’s growth: cultivating wisdom brings clarity to the practice of making merit, while cultivating merit nurtures the roots of well-being, fostering a society defined by solidarity and mutual support during times of adversity or illness.
Guiding oneself through the framework of canon law
In order to ensure practitioners do not stray from the right path, the Sangha has established a clear system of precepts that are rigorous yet attainable. First and foremost, followers must take the Three Refuges (taking refuge in the Buddha, the Dharma and the Sangha) and fully observe the Five Precepts (abstaining from killing, stealing, sexual misconduct, lying and consuming intoxicants).
In their daily lives, lay Pure Land practitioners maintain a regular religious routine through the fulfillment of their duties.
Four-Session Devotion: Devoting time to pay homage to the Buddha at four fixed times daily (6:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 6:00 PM, and 12:00 AM). Attired in proper, respectful clothing, the devotee performs twenty-four prostrations with a sincere heart before the Buddha altar.
Observance of Vegetarian Days: The number of vegetarian days is flexible based on individual capacity (2, 4, 6, or 10 days per month). Long-term practitioners are encouraged to observe a vegetarian diet for at least 10 days a month.
Reciting the Six-Character Amitabha Mantra: Frequently keep the six syllables “Namo Amitabha Buddha” in your mind during idle moments to purify your thoughts and maintain a calm, steady mind.
Visiting the pagoda to pay homage to the Buddha: At least twice a month on the first and fifteenth days of the lunar month devotees visit the pagoda or assembly hall to pay homage to the Buddha, listen to Dharma teachings, and join fellow practitioners in spiritual cultivation and the accumulation of merit.
A streamlined and solemn ceremony
The rituals of the Pure Land Lay Practitioners’ Association are distinguished by their simplicity yet profound reverence. Originally, the Founder, Minh Tri, prescribed the practice of bowing to the six directions, a gesture symbolizing respect for parents, academic teachers, spouses, friends, spiritual teachers and subordinates. Later, to accommodate the busy schedules of lay practitioners and streamline the practice, he stipulated that one need only perform twenty-four full prostrations, with the five limbs touching the ground facing the Buddha altar.
Each year, the Church observes its two most important solemn feasts:
8th day of the 4th lunar month: Celebration of Vesak (Buddha’s Birthday), combined with the annual conference of the charitable healthcare sector and the election of the leadership board.
The 23rd day of the eighth lunar month: Commemoration of the passing of Grand Master Minh Tri, combined with the annual conference of the Ethics Branch.
Within the assembly halls, the worship spaces are arranged with solemnity and reverence according to a standardized layout: the main hall enshrines Amitabha Buddha or Shakyamuni Buddha; the area behind is dedicated to Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva; and the rear chamber is reserved for honoring predecessors who rendered meritorious service to the Dharma and the nation.
By practicing at home associated with taking medicine to save people, the Pure Land Buddhist Association of Vietnam has proven that: Buddhism is not far away, but is vividly present in every charity medicine and the spirit of mutual support in everyday life./.
