Three Conditions

THREE CONDITIONS

The first of the Five Guidelines is the Three Conditions, which were related by the Buddha in the Visualization Sutra. He explained that the Three Conditions were the true causes of pure karma for all Buddhas of the past, present, and future.

In the Amitabha Sutra, the Buddha further explained that to be reborn in the Western Pure Land, we have to be “good men and good women.” The standard for this is the Three Conditions; thus, they are a crucial part of our practice, an integral component of rebirth in the Pure Land.

To achieve this rebirth, we need belief, vows, and practice—leading a moral life and chanting Amituofo mindfully.

The First Condition: Be filial and care and provide for parents Be respectful to and serve teachers Be compassionate and do not kill Cultivate the Ten Virtuous Deeds

The Second Condition: Take the Three Refuges Abide by all precepts Behave in a dignified and appropriate manner

The Third Condition: Generate the Bodhi mind Believe deeply in the law of cause and effect Recite and uphold the Mahayana sutras Encourage others to advance on the path to enlightenment